Mad Mumf's Locker Room

[Mad Mumf]

*The scene shifts to the backstage area of the arena where Mad Mumf's door is labelled with his name.  After a moment he steps from the door in a tank top with one of his clothing line's logos and a pair of cargo shorts and tapes a sign on the door.  As the camera pans in after the door's closed, we see that it reads.*

Now accepting walk-in appointments and visits.  Enter freely.  Assholes ejected at the occupant's discretion.

((OOC: This is an idea I had that I've mentioned before.  Anybody who wants to have backstage interaction with Mumf, whether it be at a weekly show or a house show, can do so here to increase interaction and/or character and angle development.  I'm going to make this an ongoing thing, so feel free to make it a post-TV, during TV, or house show thing.  You've also got my ok to hit me up in PM to let me know if you'd like to do something similar for a segment during one of the shows or PPV's.  As of now the sign will be on the door for every show.  Kind of like the APA "Office" segments from the Attitude Era.))

[Shione "SURGE" Ōshima]

It doesn't take long for Mumf's bizarre action to yield results, of a sort. A few bypassers have checked the sign out, and within perhaps half an hour there's someone waiting outside his makeshift 'office'; a sullen-looking youth with a buzzcut, probably someone's bratty younger brother or just a wayward fan. He's poised over the sign with his tongue stuck out, a red marker artfully poised to scrawl something over Mumf's handiwork, when a voice rings out.

?: Hey!

The kid looks around, tongue still protruding from his mouth but eyes quizzically widened. He's refrained from whatever he was about to scribble on the posted sign, the marker hovering uncertainly in the air. A couple of feet from him is standing Shione Ōshima, fresh from her loss at Overdrive but looking none the worse for wear, it would seem. The off-kilter powerhouse is clad in a backless yellow tank top and battered pale blue jeans, missing the right knee. Her feet are covered in similarly roughed-up trainers, the laces frayed and left sole gaping in a ragged half-grin.

Shione: Beat it... asshole.

She shifts her weight, clamping one hand to her left hip as the other tightens beside her. Her knuckles crack as she phrases a dissonantly saccharine smile and takes a slow, sauntering step forward. The kid blinks, stammers, and then takes off at a scrambling dash, his hastily-discarded marker clattering to the floor. Ōshima kicks it aside, then shoves the door open and unceremoniously stomps her way inside, stopping with both hands on her hips and a confident quirk of her lips.

Shione: Hello. Is the doctor in? I have a little problem I think we might share...

[Mad Mumf]

*Mumf relaxes on a folding chair, one of his feet kicked on on another one while Ryan and Ivy relax on nearby benches that butt up against the lockers. He grins at the first fruits of his posting for his little "project" and removes his foot from the chair and gestures to her to have a seat as he inclines his head in a half bow and half nodding gesture, something of a mix between Eastern and Western greetings and salutations as he speaks, somewhat surprisingly in Japanese to the newcomer.*

Mumf - (Translated) Greetings. Welcome. I was beginning to wonder when or if anyone would turn up. Please have a seat.

*Ryan, looking perplexed at what was said, not understanding Japanese himself, though knowing his brother spoke the language steers the conversation back to the English language.*

Ryan - What kind of problem did you have in mind?

[Shione "SURGE" Ōshima]

That gesture is more than she expected; if there's one thing Shione has adapted to most, it's the brashness of Americans. For a moment she eyes Mumf uncertainly, her lips quirking in the opposite direction before settling on a big grin. She returns the half-bow more formally, though with a boisterousness that's more good-humoured than supplicant.

Shione: <A fruit-bearing tree is known by its flowers.>

She glances at Ivy, then at Ryan, grins all the wider and slips back into English herself.

Shione: Ah... how do you say it in America? 'If you build it, they will come'.

Satisfied with that, she bobs her head and takes the invitation to sit, pulling a chair into place more-or-less perfectly between the three assembled before her – though at the last instant before setting it down she flips it about and takes a seat with her back to them all, albeit glancing over her shoulder. One hand raised, two fingers indicating a shoulder blade. The reason for this becomes immediately clear on looking; beside her spine are four dirty, grayish fingerprints. A thumb completes the five, placed directly over one of her vertebrae.

Shione: This is my problem. Fingers, you see? Fingers lead to hands. Fingers belong to hands. Hands lead to arms, to bodies, to hearts. Hearts every bit as black as those same hands. You've been marked too, haven't you?

That last goes to Mumf alone, hazel eyes settling on him in a long, deep stare.

[Mad Mumf]

*Ryan and Ivy appear to be attempting to puzzle out the meaning behind the metaphorical and symbolic statement as it registered with Mumf almost immediately. His response is to chuckle and nod.*

Mad Mumf - I've been marked by many over my career. Some more painfully so than others. I've had to face the fire literally and figuratively. Fortunately I managed to walk away from that one with minor scars and burns, physical and emotionally. The marks I bear tonight are more bruises to my body or my ego, however, and are somewhat more easily dealt with. I think, however, by your meaning, that you may share a concern that seems to be growing around the ranks of the roster. Problems increase when ignored much as cancer or poison spreads when counteractions are not taken. Even when the counteraction is not a direct effort, but rather to keep one another protected, it can be effective. I have a feeling we're on the same page in that regard as well. You seem to be cut from the same intense, hot-spirited, fight-loving mold that myself and my little family here is. Not to mention, from first impressions, I like the way your mind works.

*Mumf grins again, warmly and in a friendly manner after he finishes speaking.*

[Shione "SURGE" Ōshima]

Shione acknowledges the compliment with a faint inclination of her head, still looking back over her shoulder as she returns the smile with one less stated – but balanced with a fiercer intensity.

Shione: Cancer. Yes. Left to fester, gray turns to black rot and decay. I thought to move on quickly, to get beyond the first challenge and counter that poison with the spirit we share. I...

There's a hesitation, thus far unseen, that passes in the time it takes the powerhouse of a girl to swiftly reverse position, the fingerprints vanishing behind her in a flash of motion. She ends up straddling the chair, leaned upon folded arms. A little closer to Mumf and his band, her confidence not just returned but bolstered.

Shione: I stumbled, because I did not look at what I faced. Look too long into the shadows, and you fail to see the darkness that's already upon you. Perhaps it may prove a blessing. I fell to the cold not yet become cancer; I am no threat to what lies beyond. But you... have better eyes than most, I think. I'm no more done than they would be if we beat them back a single time. No more than you are. I'm just beginning. Like the tide, I come again. Whatever it takes.

She pauses to draw and release a breath, gently arching her back and craning her neck. She's got more to say – like the clam before a storm, she appears to be reaching the crux of her purpose here. She does so with a lazy half-grin.

Shione: I'm not here to ask for help. I'm here to agree with what you said. To offer... a courtesy.

A glance goes around the gathered three, before she alights once more on Mumf.

Shione: Family? Family takes time. As the cancer needs to grow, so too the fires of change that burn it away. Let us not say 'family' or 'friend'. We begin as fireflies in the swamp. If one of us is lost, we aid and guide the other. There are others; so we find them, too, and stoke the beacon until it becomes a blaze. Whatever that takes. What begins as watching backs may end in blood and mayhem. If we're ready to face that alone...

Her hands unwind from the back of her chair, and one extends left as the other goes right – offering Ryan and Ivy, less-addressed but by no means overlooked, to shake her calloused grip first.

Shione: We are only stronger for facing it together.

If it's accepted by both, then she puts her hands to Mumf. On the third and final shake, she'll bow her head.

[Mad Mumf]

*Ryan and Ivy smile and accept the handshakes. When Mumf is offered the handshake as well he accepts it willingly and offer a more traditional bow.*

Mumf - I think we are definitely agreed on everything we've talked about. Family does indeed take time, as evidenced by Ryan and Ivy and by groups and alliances and families I have had in my past. You speak with the wisdom of someone who's spent plenty of time around this business. You know how things develop and work in this environment and it will come to be a great asset to you. I've always been one to stop something I see if I don't like what's going on. Especially if it happens to someone I respect or share a common courtesy with.

Ivy - And hopefully we get to cause a little mayhem of our own along the way.[/green]

Mumf - Oh I'm sure there will be plenty of mayhem at hand for the people who find themselves in need of being stopped.

Ryan - Their own personal Project Mayhem, you could say...

[Shione "SURGE" Ōshima]

The Japanese powerhouse seems to accord with the majority of Mumf's speech, and yet when he's done she responds with a small shake of her head. Her gaze lingers on him as she brushes the hair from her face.

Shione: I speak with the wisdom of someone who's lived, and no more. I can stand strong and alone, or be stronger for placing my trust in others. Never a thing done lightly or easily, but... here, I believe it's right. So.

She draws herself up, and then stands, rather unnecessarily and flamboyantly turning away as she does – forcing a stepping spin to once more face the trio. Her hands find her hips, and she nods toward Ryan.

Shione: Mayhem, to answer their chaos. We fight fire with fire. I'll see you all where it burns fiercest.

Eyes gleaming, she tosses out a wild grin, then bows to each of them once more, before turning to leave.

[Mad Mumf]

*Mumf smiles as Shione leaves and settles back into his chair again, beginning an idle conversation with Ryan and Ivy, wondering to himself if that will be the only visit for the evening or if there are more coming at some point.*

[Deleted]

Joseph Johnson charges into Adam Mumford's locker room like a bat out of hell. He eyes Adam, Ryan Mumford & Ivy. He stares coldly at Adam Mumford pacing left and right. The man who will put his career on the line at Shockwave is entering a Lion's Den. He just stares coldly at the trio before finally coming to words.

Joseph Johnson|| So, this is where the scum lies. Hey, it's a free country though your stinking up the place. It's people like you and Tommy Knox that are killing this brand and this company. I'm guessing you heard the news.... I'm guessing you know i'm putting my career on the line at Shockwave. So, what's it going to be? Hell, we haven't gotten the chance to do this mano y mano. I want you to take up my offer. But, know this you won't beat me. I won't back down and i'll never ever quit. You claim to have been a Soldier Of Fortune. Well aim your guns towards me. Try to gain advantage of me at Shockwave. Or, maybe someone else will challenge me. As I don't think you have the balls to take my career. Mad Mumf there's nothing mad about you. You aren't some Messiah or Phenomenon. You are just a squirrel in my world trying to get a nut. And, I won't let you get it.

Joseph Johnson stares wide eyed at Adam Mumford and company waiting for a response.

TBC

[Mad Mumf]

*Mumf gets a skeptical expression on his face, not sure exactly what brought on this situation or the sudden butt-hurtedness...*

Mumf - Easy there, sport. I'm not entirely sure who pissed in your cornflakes, but I can assure you it wasn't me. First of all, don't associate me with Tommy Knox or with anyone else. I don't know yet if I approve of the Black Hand's actions all that much and from what I can see so far, he's the head honcho for them.

Secondly, I'm not sure you read the entire sign that's posted on the door, but you're lucky my brother and I haven't thrown you out already.

Mumf turns around and motions for his brother to sit back down, having jumped to his feet in response to the abrupt entrance.

Mumf - The reason I HAVEN'T removed you is because I respect your ability and like I said the week after the seven man scramble, my business with you is done. I haven't bothered with you since that match because I don't have a problem with you.

Mumf leans forward and rests his elbows on his knees and folds his hands by his chin.

Mumf - So that begs the question of what's got you so butt-hurt? Are you still dwelling on the last time we crossed paths? Or are you just trying to pick a fight?

[Deleted]

Joseph Johnson smiles for a second looking Adam Mumford up and down for a moment. He just smiles before exiting his locker room before coming back in again. His expression isn't as crazed as before. He appears to smile before crossing his arms together in a valiant pose.

Joseph Johnson||You know what it doesn't matter to me, how we do this? I want you at Shockwave? I don't give two shits about APW Management thinking i'm making a mistake. My career is my priority. And i'm going to put it on the line at Shockwave against anyone? And I choose you....Mad Mumf. Now, out you go from my poke' ball. It's not about the past? It's about will you end my Excellent Career? Or will I finally snap my slump? Either way it's sure to give someone a little bit of momentum in there APW careers. And to make it a little more interesting how about we go off the grid? I'm proposing an old fashioned Tai Pei Indian Strap Match with my Career on the line. Does that scream Match Of The Year? Buddy, if so then do me a favor and agree to my terms....

Johnson looks at Mumford smiling waiting for an Answer.

TBC

[Mad Mumf]

Mumf's expression shifts from irritation to stunned bewilderment during Johnson's bizarre dialogue.

Mumf - Look, kid... And yes, when you take into account the amount of time, heartbreak, and torment I've gone through in the time I've spent in this business, you're a kid in my eyes. I'm sure you've been through alot and have hit some speed bumps, but I don't know enough about you yet to know your experience level.

He runs his hand through his hair and looks hard at Joseph, a serious, but genuine expression on his face.

Mumf - I don't normally back down from any invitation to a fight. None whatsoever. But there are other ways for you to get your momentum back and to find your stride than simply risking your career in a gimmick match. What has you so dead set on wanting to take that risk?

[Shadow]

WHAM!

The door flies open. Shadow left a footprint.

Shadow: Sup punk?

He is oddly calm as he smirks. Shadow ducks his head under the door frame and enters the room with slight limp. Without a doubt, he is still feeling the effects of Asylum. Everyone in the locker room is on their feet, Mumf looks pissed as Shadow approaches. The big man waves his hand motioning to the locker room amenities.

Shadow: This is nice. I like the walls. Oh don't get up. Park your asses down.

He towers over everyone, just grinning.

Shadow: Yeah, walls. You know, a while back, I had an office like this. Some old friends of mine and I ran a little self-help group. We didn't have walls though. We had a door; just no walls. I miss that, but I'm glad we didn't have walls. Because giant assholes like me didn't kick open the door and barge in. Mad Mump! Dammit no that's not it, Bad Hump. You're going to have to help me. How the hell do you pronounce your name? Ah screw it. So, it's you and me on Meltdown?

Ryan opens his mouth to speak but Shadow stops him, he is distracted.

Shadow: Are we streaming on the net man?

They all have that goofy headshake look of surprise as Shadow points directly at the locker room camera Mumf has set up for his segment.

Shadow: We didn't have that, it cost too much. How do you pay for it? No wait don't tell me. That vapid chick there dominates your inbred sessions? You sick bastard.

He laughs for a moment then gets serious instantly. Shadow stares down at Mumf who glares back.

Shadow: Alright enough foreplay. You're the one they call "the Monster?" I thought you'd be taller.  You don't look like a monster.  But I've seen your work.  You're brutal.  I like that.  You see, I'm a monster too; and on Meltdown, you're going to find out why. I'm not dissing you, I just have a message to send. I aim to send it through you. So let's do this like real monsters. See if you can carve your name into Overdrive with my blood. I'm pretty pissed about that mammoth bitching out and using a chair to save AJP.  I hate to tell ya kid, but I plan to vent all that frustration on you.  So for your own sake, I want to see what you got.   
 
Shadow smiles as he stands there for a moment, giving Mumf the chance to respond if he chooses. 

[Mad Mumf]

Mumf sits back down, remaining motionless, his arms folded and his eyes calm and expressionless, having heard most of the name mockery before, glad it's already getting put out of the way rather than having to waste time on it when he needs to place focus on his match. His expression reflects some mild irritation from being interrupted during another conversation, but he opts not to speak on it, his eyebrows quirking during various points of Shadow's comments until he finally pauses.

Both Mumf's eyebrows raise themselves now as he waits a second longer during the pause?

Mad Mumf - Oh...I'm sorry. Are you finished? You were on such a roll there that I figured I'd make sure you were done, first. I thought that, maybe, you wanted to keep going. Well then...

Mumf stands up and meets the big man's eyes with a cold stare.

Mad Mumf - In the words of Samuel L. Jackson's Jules Winnfield, "Allow me to retort." There are varying degrees of monsters in this world, big boy, and size sometimes is a factor, yes. For a long time, I did have plenty of size to use. But, the problem is, while it has its advantages, it's also got its disadvantages. You've seen what I can do out there, and I have plenty of experience from both sides of the spectrum as far as what I can do. I've been around this business longer than some realize, than some ever get the chance to be, and longer than some here have been thus far.

You want to talk about being a monster and working out your frustrations, well then you'll get your chance and then some. Hell, you might even receive a bit of an education about what it's really about to be a monster. You think you're going to storm in here, make a boot print in my door with those clown-sized feet of yours and intimidate me? I'm the man who just threatened to beat the hell out of Victor Hades with a baseball bat. The guy spits blood and eats children! Intimidation's not going to work for you this time, KID.

Don't you worry about whether or not you'll have a monster to deal with when you step into that ring, because everyone does. You can sit there and think you can dictate to me what's going to happen at Meltdown and make me worry, but in the face of any intimidation from any person, I've always had three simple words...

Now then, if you'll excuse me, I've got beer to drink, a bar to run, people to call, and a match to get ready for. The office is closed.

With that Mumf shoulders his bag and pulls on a ratty old New York Mets baseball cap and leaves the room with his brother and manager in tow.