Auditions and Suspicions (Incursion RP Vs Ken & Kyra)
Apr 17, 2021 17:59:04 GMT -5
The Madness Menagerie likes this
Post by Incendium on Apr 17, 2021 17:59:04 GMT -5
Wednesday, April 14th 2021
Scarsdale, New York
“I’ve been thinking…” Was a statement that Gabriel Baal often shuddered to hear when coming from the mouth of his wife. It would usually end with a discussion about not insubstantial redecoration of somewhere or something, a plan with an outcome that was shaky at best, or a trip that would involve him carrying many bags around New York City.
“Yes, dear?” Gabriel asked, folding up his newspaper and placing it in front of him at the table to give Eden his full attention. This was serious - she still had pancakes on her plate. “What is it, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing…” She said, as she pushed a chunk of pancake around with her fork,
‘Aha!’ thought Gabriel immediately - a hangover. That rarest of things that Eden Morgan-Baal would, if ever attest to having had. There would be no other reason for her to be pushing pancakes around her plate. She was hungover!
“Feeling delicate?” He asked with a smile.
“What?” She said looking at him looking down at her plate. “Oh. No seriously, I’m fine, just a little carried away with my thoughts.”
“Alright?” Gabriel asked.
“Well, I was thinking, if Carnage are sending alternates to Incursion, why can’t we?” She asked, pushing her plate away. “I mean, if the Carnage Tag Team champions can cry off with an injury, then why can’t, say, you twist an ankle whilst gardening?”
“Gardening?” Gabriel asked with raised eyebrows.
“Alright, not gardening. You strained your neck when you threw your head back to laugh maniacally as you considered your next evil scheme.” She said.
“Whilst I’m offended by the notion, that actually is a more credible excuse.” Gabriel replied, begrudgingly.
“My point is - if Carnage is sending alternates, then why can’t we?” Eden added. “That way, we can slip back to the Maldives a few days early and UGWC can find someone else.”
“I mean, you make a good point - it’s not as if anyone from within UGWC is rooting for our victory. I suspect Johnny’s opinion isn’t unique.” Gabriel said, considering Eden’s point.
“Exactly! Why the hell should we represent a company where everyone hopes we’ll lose anyway?” Eden asked.
“I don’t trust Holden to find suitable replacements though.” Gabriel said. “The alternates from Carnage are at least capable. I suspect he would recall SMW’s resident fraud to replace us.”
“Probably throw in Raab, too, for shits and giggles.” Eden said, suddenly realising the Britishness of her statement. “I’ve been speaking to Jenny too often.”
“And we don’t have official Number One contenders yet..” Gabriel said. “I think Joe and Lucy are at the top of the rankings.”
“Well that’s awkward.” Eden replied, pulling a face.
“Indeed.” Said Gabriel. “So, perhaps we step in? Choose our own alternates?”
“I mean really, who else would do a better job at choosing our replacements than us?” Eden asked.
“Precisely.” Gabriel said with a smile.
“So it was a good idea?” Eden asked, raising her eyebrows “A plan with a conclusion that’s not shaky at best?”
“How did you…” Gabriel began to ask.
“It’s what makes us such a good team, dear. I know you inside and out.” Eden said before skewering a piece of pancake and putting it in her mouth. A moment later, she spat it back out. “Eww, these are cold - would you like to make me some more?”
Gabriel’s eyes rolled as Eden’s lashes fluttered. He grabbed her plate and walked towards the kitchen.
Monday, April 12th 2021
Chicago, Illanois
Gabriel and Eden Morgan-Baal had become accustomed to winning as of late - as a tandem, they had been unmatched since their narrow defeat at the hands of Blessed Vanity in the weeks leading up to Battleground but since then, they had managed not only to win the UGWC Cooperative Championships, but had since defended them twice. Their current trajectory and the upcoming match with the number one contenders to the Carnage Wrestling Tag Team Championships meant that Gabriel and Eden would soon surpass the Cooperative reign of the Engine of Chaos and tie with the longest reign of one of the most heralded teams in UGWC history - Sex and Violence.
To add to such a strong Championship run, Gabriel and Eden would also soon move into the top ten of all time Championship reigns, again surpassing the Engine of Chaos.
So, it would be expected that neither Gabriel nor Eden would be concerned with the potential of defeat when it came to Incursion. And outwardly, there was no doubt that they would tell the world that their success would be a foregone conclusion. And yet, with just a week until the cross-branded Pay Per View was due to take place, not only was Gabriel’s mind on singles competition, but Eden was yet to be cleared for competition after her Triple Threat match a week earlier.
“Go and get ready for your match, I’ll be fine.” Eden said, dressed not at all like someone who should be in a trainer’s room backstage for a wrestling event. Her stiletto heels hung next to one another as she sat cross legged on the bed.
“I have plenty of time.” Gabriel said, checking his watch. “The show doesn’t even start for an hour and I’m hardly the opening match.”
“I know, Konrad will have a nosebleed being placed that high up the card.” Eden said. Gabriel never answered, but merely smiled. “But seriously, go. You’re making me nervous.”
“All I’ll do is sit waiting to hear what he said, and then you’ll have to come over and tell me what he said and it’s just a waste of time.” Gabriel said, before fixing a wide toothy grin on his face. “Better?”
“Stop that. It’s weird.” She said, shaking her head. “Go back to brooding.”
Gabriel let out a small chuckle, the smile fading.
“Have you considered…” Gabriel said slowly, before stopping.
“Go on…” Asked Eden, her eyes narrowing suspiciously.
“I’m sure it’s nothing, it’s just…” Gabriel seemed to be chewing his words. “It seems odd to me that, considering your history with head injuries, Lucy would be callous enough to hit you over the head with a shovel.”
“Probably hoping that she’d be the pretty one for once, but she’d have to peel my face off for that.” Eden said, smirking. Gabriel chuckled. “But seriously, Lucy and I have a ladies agreement. We don’t go halves. We don’t back off. Same as you and me.”
“I know, I know…” Gabriel said slowly. “It’s just… We are facing her sister at Incursion. And you know what they say… Blood is thicker than water…”
“Of course, I mean, look at me and my family…” Eden said with a sarcastic roll of her eyes.
“I’m just saying, Eden…” Gabriel began, but Eden cut him off.
“Look, I don’t like admitting this in places where other people might hear, but Lucy is the best friend I’ve ever had. Woman best friend, at least - they’re bitchy, they’re callous, they’re mean-spirited, and whilst I’m perfectly fine with all that, they can’t take it when I’m the same but infinitely more so. She can. And as far as I can tell, I’m the best friend she’s ever had. So, when I tell you that in this case our water runs as thick as the weird stuff they give dying patients in a hospital, you can believe it.” Eden said.
“I’m not suggesting…” Gabriel began again, but this time he was cut off as JK pulled open the door to the training room. Out of the corner of his eye, Gabriel saw that Eden was nervous - she stiffened when Jordan interrupted them.
“Afternoon, Eden, good to see you.” JK said before casting a look at Gabriel. “Gabriel.”
Gabriel let out a small chuckle - it was funny how people reacted to them. Eden would usually get a more courteous welcome than he did, perhaps because deep down everyone believed that he was still, in some way, responsible for the things that she did despite the fact that she was doing them long before he arrived.
“Jordan.” Gabriel said. “How’s life treating you?”
“Well, you all keep me incredibly busy.” He said before looking up at Eden. “You know, flamin’ death matches, super-duper steel cage showdowns, people gettin’ hit in the head with shovels, that kinda thing. Speaking of which, how ya feelin’?”
“Right as rain.” Eden said, in her preppiest voice.
“Well, I’ve had the results back from your scan earlier today.” He said, looking through the pages of the report. “And if I didn’t know any better, I’d be suggestin’ that you’d somehow managed to pay off the doctor again.”
“Moi?” Eden said, pressing her hand to her chest. “I would never.”
Gabriel chuckled again.
“Mmhmm.” Jordan said, smirking. “Be that as it may, my point is that your scans look fantastic”
“Sure you’re looking at scans there, Mr. King? Or have you been looking at my thirst traps on Twitter?” Eden asked with a smirk.
Jordan ignored her.
“No lastin’ damage from the shovel shot, no inflammation, nothin’ at all that would prevent you from competin’.”
“Nothing?” Eden pressed before clearing her throat. “I mean, of course there was nothing. Never had any doubt.”
“Not sure that’s quite right, love.” Gabriel said, smiling.
“I wouldn’t recommend taking a shovel to the face every week, but I’d say this was probably your first major test since coming back.” Jordan said. “I know you’ve had some close calls, but in terms of blunt instruments to the head? Well this is the first time we’ve had to sit you out just in case.”
“So what is it that you’re saying, Jordan?” Gabriel asked.
“I’m sayin’ that perhaps we don’t have to wrap you in cotton wool every time you take a knock to the head.” Jordan said quietly. “No nose bleeds? Dizziness? Black outs?”
“No, nothing.” Eden said smiling.
“Good. Well… In that case, you’re all clear for your match next week.” Jordan said.
“Really?” Eden said, her eyes wide, doing a very good impression of someone who was sweet and innocent. “And you don’t need me to take my clothes off to check anything this time?”
Jordan shot a frantic look at Gabriel who was, quite obviously, glaring.
“If you could clarify with your husband that you’re jokin’, that would be great.” He said before Eden let out a burst of laughter. She stepped forward and dusted off his shoulder.
“Relax, Jordan. He knows I’m way, way out of your league.” She said before slapping him on the arm.
“Let’s leave Mr. King to his business, love. I have a match to prepare for.” Gabriel said as he pulled open the door and held it open for his wife. “Jordan.”
“Let’s hope we don’t see you in here after your match tonight, hey?” Jordan replied. Gabriel smiled, and followed Eden out into the hallway.
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
Gabriel and Eden walked side by side through the hallway leading to the room that they’d hired for the day in New York City, Eden carrying a Birkin handbag and Gabriel holding a leather bound folder.
“So they wanted the room before we arrived?” Eden asked.
“Apparently - they arrived thirty minutes ago, asked if they could set up.” Gabriel replied.
“What exactly do they need to set up for an audition?” Eden asked.
“I have no idea, love, this isn’t exactly something I’m used to.” Gabriel answered.
“Fair.” Eden said as they stopped just outside the door. She reached into her purse and pulled out a lipstick and a small compact mirror. She ran it over her lips and checked her lines in the mirror before snapping it shut and smiling up at him.
“Ready now?” Gabriel asked.
“You know, it wouldn’t hurt for you to look after yourself a little more. A little botox wouldn’t go amiss.” Eden said with a smile. “Help with the crowsfeet.”
“I’m perfectly capable of burying a body, you know.” Gabriel said quietly.
“As if my disappearance could go unnoticed.” Eden responded.
“That’s the beauty of it - no-one would believe you were dead this time.” Gabriel added with a smirk.
“... damn.” Eden answered considering the validity of his statement. “Hell of a long game you’re playing here, husband.”
“I’m an evil genius, remember?” Gabriel responded, and before Eden could answer again, he pushed open the door to the room. They paused, staring inside, and at the same time they both slowly tilted their heads.
“Gabriel…” Eden asked.
“Yes, love.” Gabriel responded, not taking his eyes off what was happening inside the room.
“Are they...?” Eden began.
“It would appear so.” Gabriel answered. “Passionately.”
“And are those...?” She began to ask.
“Indeed.” Gabriel responded.
“And her hands are…” Eden questioned.
“Behind her back, yes.” Gabriel answered.
“And he’s got his face in…” Eden queried.
“Yes, quite deep by the sounds of it…” Gabriel added.
“Oh god! That sprayed her in the face!” Eden added.
“Not sure that was supposed to happen…” Gabriel replied.
“She’s covered in…” Eden added
“There certainly is a lot of it.” Gabriel responded.
“I mean, she’s carried on regardless,” Eden said.
“Like a true professional...” Gabriel said.
“And they thought that this was a good idea for an audition?” Eden asked. Gabriel flipped open his folder and looked down at his notes.
“It’s apparently a dramatic representation and interpretation…” He said.
“Of us?” Eden asked.
“That is correct.” Gabriel said with a smirk.
“Well, it’s a bold choice…” Eden said with a nod.
“Isn’t it just?” Gabriel said, his smirk turning into a chuckle.
“Add them to the shortlist.” She said before stepping into the room. “I hope someone is going to mop the floors before the next auditionee arrives.”
Gabriel shook his head and followed Eden to the table behind which they planned to spend the next several hours.
Tuesday, April 13th 2021
Scarsdale, New York
Having watched her husband successfully defend the Conquest Championship for the first time, Eden had returned to Scarsdale much lighter than she had arrived in New York. News of her apparent health coupled with Gabriel’s victory had lightened the weight from her mind - now all that was left was Ken and Kyra.
Rather than stay the night in Chicago, they’d flown back to New York that night arriving home in the early hours of the morning. She had awoken not three hours later, opening her eyes to see the world still murky with darkness as the sun had barely started to rise. She’d smiled to herself as she considered that, for once, she’d be the one who would be able to provide the wake up call.
She rolled over in bed and let out a frustrated tut - Gabriel was already out of bed. Had he even slept at all? She stood up and pulled on a robe before padding softly across the room. She pulled open the door and moved through the house, with the hope that she’d at least be able to jump out and scare the crap out of him.
“What are you doing?” Came a voice from a room that she passed.
“Jesus Christ, Gabriel!” She shouted as she jumped a foot in the air. “What the hell are you doing lurking in the… You know what? That’s a stupid question.”
“Did I scare you, love?” Gabriel asked with a smirk. “Funny, because the way you were creeping around the hallways I’d have assumed you were trying to do the same thing.”
“I would never.” Eden said. “I was just being quiet so I didn’t wake… the…”
“Yes?” Gabriel asked.
“Cat.”
“We don’t have a cat.” Gabriel said.
“We could have a cat you don’t know about.” Eden said defiantly.
“Then you would be the first person in history to have managed to make a cat do precisely what they wanted it to do.” Gabriel said.
“Alright fine.” Eden said, pouting. “Yes, I was trying to scare you.”
“Why?” Gabriel asked.
“Because that’s the kind of fun thing couples do, dear.” Eden said, rolling her eyes. It amused her sometimes how she of all people had to sometimes teach Gabriel the tropes of normal life. It was easy to believe that he had come from the exact same background as she had - they both had the same icy, malicious streak. And yet, while Eden’s had been forged on the back of trauma that had unfolded since her time in wrestling, Gabriel had spent the first two thirds of his life almost completely alone.
“I would have thought we’d had enough of that in our formative years.” He said with a smile.
“You may have a point.” She said as she walked towards him and kissed him gently. “Breakfast?”
The rest of their morning had moved along at a swift pace, and around lunch time they found themselves sat at a small table at the side of the pool.
“Have you spoken to Lucy at all?” Gabriel asked.
“You’re not still on this.” Eden said, rolling her eyes.
“I merely thought she may have offered some kind of insight into Kyra - you know, should your water and blood theory be on point.” Gabriel said.
“On… Point.” Eden replied with a hint of a smirk.
“Oh, you know what I mean.” Gabriel said, waving his hand.
“I do. And I appreciate that you’re suspicious.” Eden said quietly. “I suspect you’re merely considering what you would do if you were in her position.”
“Precisely.” Gabriel said quietly. “Outside of you, I’m not sure there’s anyone I wouldn’t turn my back on for Jenny or Solomon. And for Olivia? I’d scour the Earth to find anyone who hurt a hair on her head… And for…”
Gabriel went quiet.
“I know you’d give anything to bring Quentin back.” Eden said softly. “But you have to remember that my family turned their back on me. I know how hard that is, but I also know how it feels when you don’t have the kind of family that you - somehow - have managed to find. You choose your friends, Gabriel, and you choose them carefully.”
“And whilst I understand all of that, I can’t help but worry that in Lucy’s mind you would somehow find it in you to forgive her in a way that Kyra never has. Perhaps Lucy believes that your pact to never hold back extends further than the ring.” Gabriel said. “Maybe she hopes she can, in this case, have her cake and eat it.”
“Maybe.” Eden said slowly. “And given that there was no permanent damage, perhaps she’s right. But we can’t know that, Gabriel, and if we start to lose trust in the friends we have then our world is going to shrink to nothing.”
“I’ll always be on guard, love - you know that. I can’t know what is behind the eyes of even those we trust.” Gabriel said quietly.
“You’re right… So… I guess we need to do something about that.” Eden said before picking up her phone.
“What are you do…” Gabriel began, but Eden silenced him with a single finger.
“Rude cow.” Eden said, pausing for a reaction. “Busy? … Great. Come over for dinner tonight, Gabriel has a theory he’d like to run by you.”
“That’s really not nece...” Gabriel began.
“Atatatata… I’m on the phone.” Eden said to him and then focused back on her conversation. “Oh, and if you could bring your happy face for once, that would be great. Looking forward to it. Bye!”
Eden hung up.
“This isn’t going to end well for me, is it?” Gabriel asked.
“I very much doubt it.” Eden said with a smile.
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
“Well this hasn’t gone at all to plan.” Eden said, leaning forward on her forearms. “Honestly, you’d think it would be easy to find two world class wrestlers, one with a sexy British accent and the other with great tits.”
“Apparently we’re two of a kind, love.” Gabriel said as he crossed another name off the list. “Hmm…”
“What?” She asked.
“The next one left no name.” Gabriel said looking at his list.
“Is there any information at all?” Eden asked.
“No, nothing.” Gabriel said.
“Sorry lad, my mistake, I was supposed to add that tomorrow.” Came a voice from the doorway.
“You’re getting mixed up again, Rogan, you mean yesterday.” Came a second voice.
“Sorry Ich.” Said Rogan. “But he knows what I mean.”
“Oh look, an Irish accent instead of British. At least his head looks like a boob.” Said Eden as she leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms, jerking her chin to the bald arrival.
“Gentlemen. What a pleasant surprise.” Gabriel said as Rogan MacLean and Ichabod walked towards them. “Here to audition?”
“Something like that.” Ichabod said as he pulled out a cigarette and placed it between his lips. “You look better, princess. How’s that tree stump you call a head?”
“Fantastic, thank you for your concern - how’s your glass back?” She responded.
“Never better.” He said with a smirk. “We’re here because we have… Concerns.”
“You two? Noooooo.” Eden said, her head tilting slightly. “But please, regale us with your insights.”
“No need for the hostilities, Eden.” Rogan said, holding up his hands in mock concern. “We come in peace.”
“Sorry Rogan.” She said, softening very slightly. Before turning her head towards Ichabod. “But I tend to expect chaos whenever he’s around.”
“Me?” Said Ichabod with a burst of laughter. “Oh, Princess, you flatter me - these days, I’m little more than a silent observer. The sickness is in you now, remember?”
“Miss me with that bullshit.” Eden said, rolling her eyes. “You’ve been playing that tune to no conclusion for the last three years.”
“Just because I was disappointed in the manner of your apparent resurrection doesn’t mean I can’t hold down hope that you’ll still go out the way it was intended.” Ichabod said.
“Should we… Leave the two of you alone?” Gabriel asked, casting a look to Rogan as a signal for him to join in the fun.
“Thing is, Gabriel, you know I’ve seen the future.” Rogan said quietly. “And as much as I’d like to stand here and make fun of these two, we’re here for bigger things than trading insults.”
“Of course. You’re the Ferryman now…” Gabriel said, leaning back himself. “And what, you’re both concerned we’re not taking this seriously?”
“Exactly.” Said Ichabod. “See, having been part of the establishment in UGWC, I’ve come to realise that I’m a part of its fabric. I may well have spent two years of my life in an office so that I could weave my webs across all of its creation. In doing so, it became part of me too - so when I hear that the two of you are looking for understudies, well… You can understand my concern?”
“What concern is that, Ich?” Gabriel asked.
“Despite your protestations, these two aren’t just some random pairing picked by Carnage management. They were carefully considered assassins sent to deliver a message.” Ichabod said.
“Is that right?” Eden asked.
“Yes.” Said Rogan. “I’ve looked into the various futures and the one thing that’s constant is that Kyra and Ken are not some junk team designed to make up the numbers.”
“Alright. Dr. Strange, I’m going to stop you right there…” Eden began.
“This isn’t a joke, Princess.” Ichabod started.
“Don’t interrupt me again, Ichabod.” She said, staring a hole through him.
“We know who they are.” Gabriel said quietly. “Do you honestly believe that we wouldn’t? I know who Ken Davison is - I know he’s a standard bearer for Carnage Wrestling. He’s a former World Champion, and more importantly he’s a dangerously talented submissions wrestler. But those are the profile credentials, am I right? You both know me better than that. You know I know more than that…”
“Kyra’s been an Ultraviolent Champion before - we know that. We saw it, rolled our eyes when the Bubblegum Bimbo wandered over to Carnage last year.” Eden said.
“Our World Heavyweight Champion, dear.” Gabriel responded.
“Don’t fucking remind me. Wish she’d fucking stayed there.” Eden said bitterly. “The point is, we know just how capable Kyra is - she’s Lucy’s sister. We know there’s a certain… Brutality in that particular bloodline. I mean, just look at their dear old daddy.”
“I’d say ouch, but I think she has a point, don’t you?” Gabriel said, looking at Ichabod and Rogan who stood silently.
“Kyra’s spent her entire career being on the arm of some new man - something that I, myself, have been accused of once or twice.” Eden said with a dismissive hand. “Except with Kyra, she truly does become arm candy, and her pussy tends to be a ticking time bomb to disaster. She’s like Lucy, full of daddy issues and anger, except the chaser for Lucy is alcohol and for Kyra it’s semen. Ken’s gotten a little closer to “god” than even his nickname suggests once before, so here’s hoping that when their relationship inevitably goes tits up, because all of Kyra’s relationships do, Ken doesn’t find it so hard to deal with that his next date is with a bottle each of bourbon and sleeping pills.”
“Let’s not forget the baggage that young Kyra has to deal with. The abuse. The abandonment. She’s the textbook childhood trauma case. Is it any surprise that she bounces around from man to man looking for the next father figure to desperately cling to for dear life? Is it any real surprise that every relationship she has becomes toxic and damaged the moment she touches it? She’s looking for daddy in every man she’s ever lay down with and poisoning them all at the same time.” Gabriel added, shaking his head.
“Eww. I bet she calls Ken that too…” Eden said, putting her hand over her mouth as if to stifle the urge to vomit. “But let’s be honest - they were inevitable as a couple.”
“Without doubt.” Gabriel said. “The perennial victim.”
“And the man who couldn’t save his family.” Eden said, with a faux lump in her throat. “Is there ever a more perfect story than the helpless maiden and the white knight?”
“And that, right there, is why they’ll only ever be a shadow of who and what we are - Ken thinks he knows how to play games? Compared to me, he’s a beginner sitting across from a Grand Master. And whilst Kyra may think she has a sharp tongue, if she tries to trade wits with Eden Morgan she’ll find the retorts sharper than the razors Ken keeps in his gym bag. You know… Just in case.” Said Gabriel with a smile.
“So, gentlemen, have we proven that we’ve done our homework? That we know who our opponents are?” Eden asked.
Ichabod’s mouth curled into a smile.
“Then why this? The auditions? The stand-ins?” He asked.
“Because we don’t get the respect we deserve.” Eden said frostily.
“Why should we fight for a company that hopes to see us fail?” Gabriel asked.
Ichabod rolled his tongue over his teeth. He opened his mouth to speak but Rogan put a hand on his arm.
“Leave it.” Rogan said slowly.
“Seriously?” Ichabod asked.
“There’s still hope, but… This isn’t the one. We won’t convince them to change their mind.” Rogan said. “Eden. Gabriel. It’s been a pleasure as always.”
“Thank you for stopping by, gentlemen.” Gabriel said.
“Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.” Eden said with a sweet smile.
Ichabod lifted another cigarette to his lips.
“Till next time.” He said, before the pair of them turned and walked towards the door.
Rogan stopped only to wave as he left.
“Alright.” Gabriel said, looking down at his sheet to see Ichabod and Rogan’s name in the space that had been empty earlier. He let out a chuckle and crossed it out. “What’s next?”
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
“So let me get this straight, Gabriel.” Lucy said, her arms crossed over her chest, her eyes burrowing through him like lazerbeams. “Your theory is that I still feel guilty for the past I share with my sister. That, despite the fact that we’ve had a lot of ups and downs since then, I feel so much guilt that I would intentionally try to take out my best friend…”
“Needy bitch.” Eden said from her right.
“Shut up.” Lucy added and Eden grinned. “That I would intentionally try to injure my best friend to give my sister an advantage over the two of you? Eden, who has been there for me unlike anyone else, and you who - as you well know - I came to before anyone else for help?”
“Yeah, and neither of you will tell me what it is.” Eden pouted.
“Have you ever been patient a day in your life?” Lucy snapped at her and then looked back to Gabriel. “My point is - you think I’d betray the two people I have in my life that I actually trust?”
Gabriel rolled his tongue around the inside of his mouth.
“She’s waiting, Gabriel.” Eden said, enjoying his discomfort.
“That was my general idea, yes.” Gabriel said. “But in defence of the aforementioned friendship, I did point out that you believed that it was strong enough to overcome such a betrayal as the history you two share is a little different.”
“Pfft, you can talk.” Lucy said, rolling her eyes.
“Hey, can we focus your annoyance on him and not let this reach out for me too?” Eden said.
“Right, sorry.” Lucy said. “And even if that was true, what you’re suggesting is that not only would I be putting Eden in danger, which I’ll agree she’d probably be able to get over, but by doing so I would be sending you out against Kyra and Ken. On your own. Do you honestly believe that she’d forgive me if you had to face those two in a two on one?”
“Well I mean… My point…” Gabriel stammered.
“In fact, do you honestly think that if I saw you out there on your own against the two of them that I wouldn’t just march my ass out there and stand next to you? So your theory is that I’d take out Eden just so I’d get to come out there and beat the shit out of my sister.” Lucy added. “Do you honestly believe that I think so little of our friendship that I’d even think about getting involved?”
“Of course not.” Gabriel said, looking just a little abashed. “I just know what I would do for family.”
“Right. And for better or worse, these past six months, you two have been like family to me. Now, that doesn’t mean I’d walk out there and betray Kyra either, but I damn sure know that I’m not going to do anything that might risk you or Eden getting hurt. Jesus Christ, Gabriel, I was terrified while she was getting checked over after our match.” Lucy said.
“You really are kind of pathetic.” Eden said, shooting Lucy a faux look of pity.
“Whose side are you on here?” Lucy asked.
“The tide swings depending on who I can annoy more.” Eden added with a shrug.
“Understand that at no point did I lay blame upon you - nor did I offer any ire for what I perceived to be your potential actions. I understood them, Lucy - afterall, I’ve spent a long time trying to make good on my betrayals.” Gabriel said, looking down for a moment.
“Yeah. Well…” Lucy said quietly. “You’ve made good a hundred times over with me. I’m not sure that’s possible with Kyra.”
“She’s always been lovely to me…” Eden said, smiling.
“You know, I really enjoyed hitting you with that shovel.” Lucy said.
“Rude cow.” Eden grumbled.
“I can see why, perhaps, you thought I was trying to make things up with Kyra, and I’ll admit, I did feel bad that I could have possibly made things more difficult for the two of you… So…” Lucy took a deep breath. “In the spirit of evening the odds a little, I’ll say this - Kyra is easy to rile. And if you manage it, you’ll take her head off the game. Just understand, they will see the weakness that the two of you have.”
“What weakness?” Eden asked, suddenly allowing her jovial mask to slip.
“Each other.” Lucy said smiling.
“Preposterous.” Gabriel said, shaking his head.
“Is it? Because I’m pretty confident you’d move heaven and earth just to stop the other getting hurt, and eventually, someone is going to figure that out and it’s going to be your downfall. Because whether it’s Ken and Kyra or whoever it is you face eventually, someone is going to make one of you choose between the safety of the other and winning the match - and can either of you honestly say that you’d let the other get hurt just to win?” Lucy asked.
“You know how angry I would be if Gabriel cost himself something to save me.” Eden said. “And I know how he would feel if the situation was reversed.”
“I suppose we’ll find out sooner rather than later.” Gabriel said smiling. “But as for riling up your dear sister, I think we can manage that.”
“No shit.” Lucy said, rolling her eyes.
“Well. That’s settled. Lucy wasn’t setting me up, and she’s evened the score by giving us the inside scoop on Kyra.” Eden said smiling. “I think all that’s left is for us to get very, very drunk.”
“Sounds like a plan.” Gabriel nodded.
“No, no… Not you.” Eden said, holding up a finger. “You accused my best friend of treachery. I can’t let that slide. We’re going out.”
“And I’m not invited?” Gabriel asked with chagrin, leaning back in his chair.
“Fuck no you’re not invited. Not after what you accused me of.” Lucy added.
“I’ll just stay here then.” Gabriel said. “Scheming.”
“You do that, husband.” Eden said. “Come on, Lucy - let's go and see if we can’t find you something to wear that didn’t come from Goodwill.”
“Something of yours?” Lucy asked.
“Of course.” Said Eden.
“Well in that case, could we find something that’s floor length? That way it might at least reach my knees.” Lucy replied.
“Don’t make me regret this.” Eden said as they disappeared through the doors.
Gabriel stared after them, blinking rapidly as he considered the outcome of the evening.
Tuesday, April 13th 2021
Scarsdale, New York
“Alright, this is number… sixty nine.” Gabriel said as he checked off the list. “And the last one on the list… Next!”
The doors of the audition room opened.
“What the hell are you doing here?” Eden asked. “No… No. Get out.”
“Relax, Eden.” Came a voice from the doorway. “Just hear me out.”
“Travis.” Gabriel said smiling. “How are we?”
“Good, Baal. Really good - here to solve all of your problems.” Travis Pierce said smiling.
“And how do you plan on doing that?” Gabriel asked with a fixed smile.
“By taking your place at Incursion.” Travis said with a nod.
“Really?” Asked Eden. “You and who?”
“Oh no.” Travis said, shaking his head. “No, you misunderstand - I don’t mean I’ll be replacing both of you. I mean I’d be replacing him.”
Travis pointed at Gabriel who looked from him, to Eden, back to him and then leaned back in his seat with his arms crossed.
“You want to replace me and team with Eden at Incursion?” Gabriel asked.
“Precisely.” Travis answered.
“Why the hell would either of us agree to that?” Eden asked.
“Because I know you better than anyone on this roster, Eden.” Travis said, casting Gabriel a look. “Anyone.”
“Ha.” Eden said, rolling her eyes and smiling widely.
“I’ve seen all sides of you, Eden - I’ve seen who you were before your demons, I’ve seen who you were in your darkest days. Most of all, when we were on the same page we had the entire world cowering at what we could become.” Travis said, watching her.
Eden never broke her stare, but the smile had gone.
He paused for effect, ever the showman.
“Sure, it was Jet and I who were Cooperative Champions, the greatest Cooperative Champions of all time I may add. But that was only because the Consortium knew it was better to keep the two of us apart, because no-one was ready for what that would mean.” Travis said slowly, before his mouth curled into a smile. “And if memory serves, it’s not just the Consortium who felt that way.”
“Cute.” Eden said, shaking her head slowly.
“Whilst we appreciate the offer…” Gabriel began, but Travis cut him off by lifting a hand. He never once looked at Gabriel, never took his eyes off Eden.
“Thing is, Gabriel, I don’t really care what you have to say. I’m talking to your wife, right now - you know, the organ grinder? And deep down, she knows that it’s in your best interests to sit this one out at Incursion. I mean, you’ll have the Conquest Championship to defend in the weeks leading up to Outlast. She had a week off this week, but you didn’t. So maybe she should do the right thing and give you a break while she and I show the world just how dominant the Piercing Media Network and UGWC truly are.” Travis said.
“He does have a point…” Eden said slowly, finally breaking her gaze and looking at Gabriel.
“You can’t be serious.” Gabriel answered whilst looking at Pierce whose mouth was curling into a smile.
“Travis Pierce is a lot of things, but he does have the annoying habit of making a good point every now and again.” Eden added. “The rest would do you good, and we were pretty good together.”
“Eden…” Gabriel said.
“Exactly.” Travis said stepping forward and leaning over onto the desk in front of her. “So you’re open to the idea of upgrading…”
“Oh Travis.” Eden replied as she reached out a finger and booped his nose, that annoying gesture that had so irritated Donovan Hastings once upon a time. “I upgraded a long time ago. And I’ll agree that the two of us were very, very good, but do you know what works better? Gabriel and I - and you know why? Because we respect one another as equals.”
“I respect you, Eden.” Travis said. “You know that.”
“Oh I know you do.” She said with a smile and a wink. “I don’t dislike you, Travis, in fact, I’m actually grateful for the time I spent in the Piercing Media Network. Not because of what happened and not because of what I became, but because you showed me the true power of having people around you that you can completely trust. And even if I were interested in finding someone to replace Gabriel in this match, even if I were interested at all in teaming with anyone other than him? The fact would still remain is that you and I could never, ever trust one another.”
“Stranger things have happened.” Pierce said with a smirk.
“They have.” Eden said as she looked at Gabriel with a smile.
“So, that’s a no?” Pierce said quietly.
“The thing is Travis…” Gabriel began.
“Not sure how many times I need to tell you, I’m not interested in what you have to say.” Travis said.
Gabriel smiled at the flicker of annoyance that crossed Travis’ face.
“And yet you’ll listen anyway.” Gabriel said, pausing for a moment before continuing. “Eden and I are on the verge of true greatness as a team. I’ll concur that, for the moment, The Piercing Weapons are one of the greatest teams of all time, but the fact remains that right now there isn’t a team better than Incendium on this planet. Not just in UGWC, in the entire world.”
“Then why the hell are you sat in this room looking for people to take your place?” Pierce asked, finally looking at Gabriel. “Why don’t you both prove it?”
Gabriel's mouth flickered in amusement before turning to look at Eden, finding her smiling back.
“You’re the champs.” He said. “And when I document this moment in UGWC’s history, I want to be able to say that UGWC sent their very best.”
“Thank you, Travis.” Eden said leaning forward in her chair and placing a kiss on his cheek.
He leaned back and offered her nothing more than a nod.
“I’m coming for what you have, Baal.” Travis said, smiling and backing away.
“Looking forward to it.” Gabriel said, smirking. “I’ll be defending it each week on Synergy.”
“Oh, yeah… Sure.” Travis said, nodding. “The Conquest Title too…”
Eden let out a chuckle and shook her head. Gabriel, less so. Travis turned and walked out of the door.
“So… we win this?” Eden said.
“Not for them. Not for those who want to see us fail.” Gabriel responded.
“For Incendium and our legacy.” Eden said as she reached out and gripped his arm.
“For the right to call ourselves the very best at what we do.” Gabriel added.
“And, apparently, for Travis Pierce.” Eden said, before blinking rapidly in disbelief.
“For Travis... fucking... Pierce.” Gabriel said, shaking his head. “To Incursion then.”
“To Incursion.” Eden said as Gabriel closed the folder in front of him on the table.
Scarsdale, New York
“I’ve been thinking…” Was a statement that Gabriel Baal often shuddered to hear when coming from the mouth of his wife. It would usually end with a discussion about not insubstantial redecoration of somewhere or something, a plan with an outcome that was shaky at best, or a trip that would involve him carrying many bags around New York City.
“Yes, dear?” Gabriel asked, folding up his newspaper and placing it in front of him at the table to give Eden his full attention. This was serious - she still had pancakes on her plate. “What is it, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing…” She said, as she pushed a chunk of pancake around with her fork,
‘Aha!’ thought Gabriel immediately - a hangover. That rarest of things that Eden Morgan-Baal would, if ever attest to having had. There would be no other reason for her to be pushing pancakes around her plate. She was hungover!
“Feeling delicate?” He asked with a smile.
“What?” She said looking at him looking down at her plate. “Oh. No seriously, I’m fine, just a little carried away with my thoughts.”
“Alright?” Gabriel asked.
“Well, I was thinking, if Carnage are sending alternates to Incursion, why can’t we?” She asked, pushing her plate away. “I mean, if the Carnage Tag Team champions can cry off with an injury, then why can’t, say, you twist an ankle whilst gardening?”
“Gardening?” Gabriel asked with raised eyebrows.
“Alright, not gardening. You strained your neck when you threw your head back to laugh maniacally as you considered your next evil scheme.” She said.
“Whilst I’m offended by the notion, that actually is a more credible excuse.” Gabriel replied, begrudgingly.
“My point is - if Carnage is sending alternates, then why can’t we?” Eden added. “That way, we can slip back to the Maldives a few days early and UGWC can find someone else.”
“I mean, you make a good point - it’s not as if anyone from within UGWC is rooting for our victory. I suspect Johnny’s opinion isn’t unique.” Gabriel said, considering Eden’s point.
“Exactly! Why the hell should we represent a company where everyone hopes we’ll lose anyway?” Eden asked.
“I don’t trust Holden to find suitable replacements though.” Gabriel said. “The alternates from Carnage are at least capable. I suspect he would recall SMW’s resident fraud to replace us.”
“Probably throw in Raab, too, for shits and giggles.” Eden said, suddenly realising the Britishness of her statement. “I’ve been speaking to Jenny too often.”
“And we don’t have official Number One contenders yet..” Gabriel said. “I think Joe and Lucy are at the top of the rankings.”
“Well that’s awkward.” Eden replied, pulling a face.
“Indeed.” Said Gabriel. “So, perhaps we step in? Choose our own alternates?”
“I mean really, who else would do a better job at choosing our replacements than us?” Eden asked.
“Precisely.” Gabriel said with a smile.
“So it was a good idea?” Eden asked, raising her eyebrows “A plan with a conclusion that’s not shaky at best?”
“How did you…” Gabriel began to ask.
“It’s what makes us such a good team, dear. I know you inside and out.” Eden said before skewering a piece of pancake and putting it in her mouth. A moment later, she spat it back out. “Eww, these are cold - would you like to make me some more?”
Gabriel’s eyes rolled as Eden’s lashes fluttered. He grabbed her plate and walked towards the kitchen.
Monday, April 12th 2021
Chicago, Illanois
Gabriel and Eden Morgan-Baal had become accustomed to winning as of late - as a tandem, they had been unmatched since their narrow defeat at the hands of Blessed Vanity in the weeks leading up to Battleground but since then, they had managed not only to win the UGWC Cooperative Championships, but had since defended them twice. Their current trajectory and the upcoming match with the number one contenders to the Carnage Wrestling Tag Team Championships meant that Gabriel and Eden would soon surpass the Cooperative reign of the Engine of Chaos and tie with the longest reign of one of the most heralded teams in UGWC history - Sex and Violence.
To add to such a strong Championship run, Gabriel and Eden would also soon move into the top ten of all time Championship reigns, again surpassing the Engine of Chaos.
So, it would be expected that neither Gabriel nor Eden would be concerned with the potential of defeat when it came to Incursion. And outwardly, there was no doubt that they would tell the world that their success would be a foregone conclusion. And yet, with just a week until the cross-branded Pay Per View was due to take place, not only was Gabriel’s mind on singles competition, but Eden was yet to be cleared for competition after her Triple Threat match a week earlier.
“Go and get ready for your match, I’ll be fine.” Eden said, dressed not at all like someone who should be in a trainer’s room backstage for a wrestling event. Her stiletto heels hung next to one another as she sat cross legged on the bed.
“I have plenty of time.” Gabriel said, checking his watch. “The show doesn’t even start for an hour and I’m hardly the opening match.”
“I know, Konrad will have a nosebleed being placed that high up the card.” Eden said. Gabriel never answered, but merely smiled. “But seriously, go. You’re making me nervous.”
“All I’ll do is sit waiting to hear what he said, and then you’ll have to come over and tell me what he said and it’s just a waste of time.” Gabriel said, before fixing a wide toothy grin on his face. “Better?”
“Stop that. It’s weird.” She said, shaking her head. “Go back to brooding.”
Gabriel let out a small chuckle, the smile fading.
“Have you considered…” Gabriel said slowly, before stopping.
“Go on…” Asked Eden, her eyes narrowing suspiciously.
“I’m sure it’s nothing, it’s just…” Gabriel seemed to be chewing his words. “It seems odd to me that, considering your history with head injuries, Lucy would be callous enough to hit you over the head with a shovel.”
“Probably hoping that she’d be the pretty one for once, but she’d have to peel my face off for that.” Eden said, smirking. Gabriel chuckled. “But seriously, Lucy and I have a ladies agreement. We don’t go halves. We don’t back off. Same as you and me.”
“I know, I know…” Gabriel said slowly. “It’s just… We are facing her sister at Incursion. And you know what they say… Blood is thicker than water…”
“Of course, I mean, look at me and my family…” Eden said with a sarcastic roll of her eyes.
“I’m just saying, Eden…” Gabriel began, but Eden cut him off.
“Look, I don’t like admitting this in places where other people might hear, but Lucy is the best friend I’ve ever had. Woman best friend, at least - they’re bitchy, they’re callous, they’re mean-spirited, and whilst I’m perfectly fine with all that, they can’t take it when I’m the same but infinitely more so. She can. And as far as I can tell, I’m the best friend she’s ever had. So, when I tell you that in this case our water runs as thick as the weird stuff they give dying patients in a hospital, you can believe it.” Eden said.
“I’m not suggesting…” Gabriel began again, but this time he was cut off as JK pulled open the door to the training room. Out of the corner of his eye, Gabriel saw that Eden was nervous - she stiffened when Jordan interrupted them.
“Afternoon, Eden, good to see you.” JK said before casting a look at Gabriel. “Gabriel.”
Gabriel let out a small chuckle - it was funny how people reacted to them. Eden would usually get a more courteous welcome than he did, perhaps because deep down everyone believed that he was still, in some way, responsible for the things that she did despite the fact that she was doing them long before he arrived.
“Jordan.” Gabriel said. “How’s life treating you?”
“Well, you all keep me incredibly busy.” He said before looking up at Eden. “You know, flamin’ death matches, super-duper steel cage showdowns, people gettin’ hit in the head with shovels, that kinda thing. Speaking of which, how ya feelin’?”
“Right as rain.” Eden said, in her preppiest voice.
“Well, I’ve had the results back from your scan earlier today.” He said, looking through the pages of the report. “And if I didn’t know any better, I’d be suggestin’ that you’d somehow managed to pay off the doctor again.”
“Moi?” Eden said, pressing her hand to her chest. “I would never.”
Gabriel chuckled again.
“Mmhmm.” Jordan said, smirking. “Be that as it may, my point is that your scans look fantastic”
“Sure you’re looking at scans there, Mr. King? Or have you been looking at my thirst traps on Twitter?” Eden asked with a smirk.
Jordan ignored her.
“No lastin’ damage from the shovel shot, no inflammation, nothin’ at all that would prevent you from competin’.”
“Nothing?” Eden pressed before clearing her throat. “I mean, of course there was nothing. Never had any doubt.”
“Not sure that’s quite right, love.” Gabriel said, smiling.
“I wouldn’t recommend taking a shovel to the face every week, but I’d say this was probably your first major test since coming back.” Jordan said. “I know you’ve had some close calls, but in terms of blunt instruments to the head? Well this is the first time we’ve had to sit you out just in case.”
“So what is it that you’re saying, Jordan?” Gabriel asked.
“I’m sayin’ that perhaps we don’t have to wrap you in cotton wool every time you take a knock to the head.” Jordan said quietly. “No nose bleeds? Dizziness? Black outs?”
“No, nothing.” Eden said smiling.
“Good. Well… In that case, you’re all clear for your match next week.” Jordan said.
“Really?” Eden said, her eyes wide, doing a very good impression of someone who was sweet and innocent. “And you don’t need me to take my clothes off to check anything this time?”
Jordan shot a frantic look at Gabriel who was, quite obviously, glaring.
“If you could clarify with your husband that you’re jokin’, that would be great.” He said before Eden let out a burst of laughter. She stepped forward and dusted off his shoulder.
“Relax, Jordan. He knows I’m way, way out of your league.” She said before slapping him on the arm.
“Let’s leave Mr. King to his business, love. I have a match to prepare for.” Gabriel said as he pulled open the door and held it open for his wife. “Jordan.”
“Let’s hope we don’t see you in here after your match tonight, hey?” Jordan replied. Gabriel smiled, and followed Eden out into the hallway.
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
Gabriel and Eden walked side by side through the hallway leading to the room that they’d hired for the day in New York City, Eden carrying a Birkin handbag and Gabriel holding a leather bound folder.
“So they wanted the room before we arrived?” Eden asked.
“Apparently - they arrived thirty minutes ago, asked if they could set up.” Gabriel replied.
“What exactly do they need to set up for an audition?” Eden asked.
“I have no idea, love, this isn’t exactly something I’m used to.” Gabriel answered.
“Fair.” Eden said as they stopped just outside the door. She reached into her purse and pulled out a lipstick and a small compact mirror. She ran it over her lips and checked her lines in the mirror before snapping it shut and smiling up at him.
“Ready now?” Gabriel asked.
“You know, it wouldn’t hurt for you to look after yourself a little more. A little botox wouldn’t go amiss.” Eden said with a smile. “Help with the crowsfeet.”
“I’m perfectly capable of burying a body, you know.” Gabriel said quietly.
“As if my disappearance could go unnoticed.” Eden responded.
“That’s the beauty of it - no-one would believe you were dead this time.” Gabriel added with a smirk.
“... damn.” Eden answered considering the validity of his statement. “Hell of a long game you’re playing here, husband.”
“I’m an evil genius, remember?” Gabriel responded, and before Eden could answer again, he pushed open the door to the room. They paused, staring inside, and at the same time they both slowly tilted their heads.
“Gabriel…” Eden asked.
“Yes, love.” Gabriel responded, not taking his eyes off what was happening inside the room.
“Are they...?” Eden began.
“It would appear so.” Gabriel answered. “Passionately.”
“And are those...?” She began to ask.
“Indeed.” Gabriel responded.
“And her hands are…” Eden questioned.
“Behind her back, yes.” Gabriel answered.
“And he’s got his face in…” Eden queried.
“Yes, quite deep by the sounds of it…” Gabriel added.
“Oh god! That sprayed her in the face!” Eden added.
“Not sure that was supposed to happen…” Gabriel replied.
“She’s covered in…” Eden added
“There certainly is a lot of it.” Gabriel responded.
“I mean, she’s carried on regardless,” Eden said.
“Like a true professional...” Gabriel said.
“And they thought that this was a good idea for an audition?” Eden asked. Gabriel flipped open his folder and looked down at his notes.
“It’s apparently a dramatic representation and interpretation…” He said.
“Of us?” Eden asked.
“That is correct.” Gabriel said with a smirk.
“Well, it’s a bold choice…” Eden said with a nod.
“Isn’t it just?” Gabriel said, his smirk turning into a chuckle.
“Add them to the shortlist.” She said before stepping into the room. “I hope someone is going to mop the floors before the next auditionee arrives.”
Gabriel shook his head and followed Eden to the table behind which they planned to spend the next several hours.
Tuesday, April 13th 2021
Scarsdale, New York
Having watched her husband successfully defend the Conquest Championship for the first time, Eden had returned to Scarsdale much lighter than she had arrived in New York. News of her apparent health coupled with Gabriel’s victory had lightened the weight from her mind - now all that was left was Ken and Kyra.
Rather than stay the night in Chicago, they’d flown back to New York that night arriving home in the early hours of the morning. She had awoken not three hours later, opening her eyes to see the world still murky with darkness as the sun had barely started to rise. She’d smiled to herself as she considered that, for once, she’d be the one who would be able to provide the wake up call.
She rolled over in bed and let out a frustrated tut - Gabriel was already out of bed. Had he even slept at all? She stood up and pulled on a robe before padding softly across the room. She pulled open the door and moved through the house, with the hope that she’d at least be able to jump out and scare the crap out of him.
“What are you doing?” Came a voice from a room that she passed.
“Jesus Christ, Gabriel!” She shouted as she jumped a foot in the air. “What the hell are you doing lurking in the… You know what? That’s a stupid question.”
“Did I scare you, love?” Gabriel asked with a smirk. “Funny, because the way you were creeping around the hallways I’d have assumed you were trying to do the same thing.”
“I would never.” Eden said. “I was just being quiet so I didn’t wake… the…”
“Yes?” Gabriel asked.
“Cat.”
“We don’t have a cat.” Gabriel said.
“We could have a cat you don’t know about.” Eden said defiantly.
“Then you would be the first person in history to have managed to make a cat do precisely what they wanted it to do.” Gabriel said.
“Alright fine.” Eden said, pouting. “Yes, I was trying to scare you.”
“Why?” Gabriel asked.
“Because that’s the kind of fun thing couples do, dear.” Eden said, rolling her eyes. It amused her sometimes how she of all people had to sometimes teach Gabriel the tropes of normal life. It was easy to believe that he had come from the exact same background as she had - they both had the same icy, malicious streak. And yet, while Eden’s had been forged on the back of trauma that had unfolded since her time in wrestling, Gabriel had spent the first two thirds of his life almost completely alone.
“I would have thought we’d had enough of that in our formative years.” He said with a smile.
“You may have a point.” She said as she walked towards him and kissed him gently. “Breakfast?”
The rest of their morning had moved along at a swift pace, and around lunch time they found themselves sat at a small table at the side of the pool.
“Have you spoken to Lucy at all?” Gabriel asked.
“You’re not still on this.” Eden said, rolling her eyes.
“I merely thought she may have offered some kind of insight into Kyra - you know, should your water and blood theory be on point.” Gabriel said.
“On… Point.” Eden replied with a hint of a smirk.
“Oh, you know what I mean.” Gabriel said, waving his hand.
“I do. And I appreciate that you’re suspicious.” Eden said quietly. “I suspect you’re merely considering what you would do if you were in her position.”
“Precisely.” Gabriel said quietly. “Outside of you, I’m not sure there’s anyone I wouldn’t turn my back on for Jenny or Solomon. And for Olivia? I’d scour the Earth to find anyone who hurt a hair on her head… And for…”
Gabriel went quiet.
“I know you’d give anything to bring Quentin back.” Eden said softly. “But you have to remember that my family turned their back on me. I know how hard that is, but I also know how it feels when you don’t have the kind of family that you - somehow - have managed to find. You choose your friends, Gabriel, and you choose them carefully.”
“And whilst I understand all of that, I can’t help but worry that in Lucy’s mind you would somehow find it in you to forgive her in a way that Kyra never has. Perhaps Lucy believes that your pact to never hold back extends further than the ring.” Gabriel said. “Maybe she hopes she can, in this case, have her cake and eat it.”
“Maybe.” Eden said slowly. “And given that there was no permanent damage, perhaps she’s right. But we can’t know that, Gabriel, and if we start to lose trust in the friends we have then our world is going to shrink to nothing.”
“I’ll always be on guard, love - you know that. I can’t know what is behind the eyes of even those we trust.” Gabriel said quietly.
“You’re right… So… I guess we need to do something about that.” Eden said before picking up her phone.
“What are you do…” Gabriel began, but Eden silenced him with a single finger.
“Rude cow.” Eden said, pausing for a reaction. “Busy? … Great. Come over for dinner tonight, Gabriel has a theory he’d like to run by you.”
“That’s really not nece...” Gabriel began.
“Atatatata… I’m on the phone.” Eden said to him and then focused back on her conversation. “Oh, and if you could bring your happy face for once, that would be great. Looking forward to it. Bye!”
Eden hung up.
“This isn’t going to end well for me, is it?” Gabriel asked.
“I very much doubt it.” Eden said with a smile.
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
“Well this hasn’t gone at all to plan.” Eden said, leaning forward on her forearms. “Honestly, you’d think it would be easy to find two world class wrestlers, one with a sexy British accent and the other with great tits.”
“Apparently we’re two of a kind, love.” Gabriel said as he crossed another name off the list. “Hmm…”
“What?” She asked.
“The next one left no name.” Gabriel said looking at his list.
“Is there any information at all?” Eden asked.
“No, nothing.” Gabriel said.
“Sorry lad, my mistake, I was supposed to add that tomorrow.” Came a voice from the doorway.
“You’re getting mixed up again, Rogan, you mean yesterday.” Came a second voice.
“Sorry Ich.” Said Rogan. “But he knows what I mean.”
“Oh look, an Irish accent instead of British. At least his head looks like a boob.” Said Eden as she leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms, jerking her chin to the bald arrival.
“Gentlemen. What a pleasant surprise.” Gabriel said as Rogan MacLean and Ichabod walked towards them. “Here to audition?”
“Something like that.” Ichabod said as he pulled out a cigarette and placed it between his lips. “You look better, princess. How’s that tree stump you call a head?”
“Fantastic, thank you for your concern - how’s your glass back?” She responded.
“Never better.” He said with a smirk. “We’re here because we have… Concerns.”
“You two? Noooooo.” Eden said, her head tilting slightly. “But please, regale us with your insights.”
“No need for the hostilities, Eden.” Rogan said, holding up his hands in mock concern. “We come in peace.”
“Sorry Rogan.” She said, softening very slightly. Before turning her head towards Ichabod. “But I tend to expect chaos whenever he’s around.”
“Me?” Said Ichabod with a burst of laughter. “Oh, Princess, you flatter me - these days, I’m little more than a silent observer. The sickness is in you now, remember?”
“Miss me with that bullshit.” Eden said, rolling her eyes. “You’ve been playing that tune to no conclusion for the last three years.”
“Just because I was disappointed in the manner of your apparent resurrection doesn’t mean I can’t hold down hope that you’ll still go out the way it was intended.” Ichabod said.
“Should we… Leave the two of you alone?” Gabriel asked, casting a look to Rogan as a signal for him to join in the fun.
“Thing is, Gabriel, you know I’ve seen the future.” Rogan said quietly. “And as much as I’d like to stand here and make fun of these two, we’re here for bigger things than trading insults.”
“Of course. You’re the Ferryman now…” Gabriel said, leaning back himself. “And what, you’re both concerned we’re not taking this seriously?”
“Exactly.” Said Ichabod. “See, having been part of the establishment in UGWC, I’ve come to realise that I’m a part of its fabric. I may well have spent two years of my life in an office so that I could weave my webs across all of its creation. In doing so, it became part of me too - so when I hear that the two of you are looking for understudies, well… You can understand my concern?”
“What concern is that, Ich?” Gabriel asked.
“Despite your protestations, these two aren’t just some random pairing picked by Carnage management. They were carefully considered assassins sent to deliver a message.” Ichabod said.
“Is that right?” Eden asked.
“Yes.” Said Rogan. “I’ve looked into the various futures and the one thing that’s constant is that Kyra and Ken are not some junk team designed to make up the numbers.”
“Alright. Dr. Strange, I’m going to stop you right there…” Eden began.
“This isn’t a joke, Princess.” Ichabod started.
“Don’t interrupt me again, Ichabod.” She said, staring a hole through him.
“We know who they are.” Gabriel said quietly. “Do you honestly believe that we wouldn’t? I know who Ken Davison is - I know he’s a standard bearer for Carnage Wrestling. He’s a former World Champion, and more importantly he’s a dangerously talented submissions wrestler. But those are the profile credentials, am I right? You both know me better than that. You know I know more than that…”
“Kyra’s been an Ultraviolent Champion before - we know that. We saw it, rolled our eyes when the Bubblegum Bimbo wandered over to Carnage last year.” Eden said.
“Our World Heavyweight Champion, dear.” Gabriel responded.
“Don’t fucking remind me. Wish she’d fucking stayed there.” Eden said bitterly. “The point is, we know just how capable Kyra is - she’s Lucy’s sister. We know there’s a certain… Brutality in that particular bloodline. I mean, just look at their dear old daddy.”
“I’d say ouch, but I think she has a point, don’t you?” Gabriel said, looking at Ichabod and Rogan who stood silently.
“Kyra’s spent her entire career being on the arm of some new man - something that I, myself, have been accused of once or twice.” Eden said with a dismissive hand. “Except with Kyra, she truly does become arm candy, and her pussy tends to be a ticking time bomb to disaster. She’s like Lucy, full of daddy issues and anger, except the chaser for Lucy is alcohol and for Kyra it’s semen. Ken’s gotten a little closer to “god” than even his nickname suggests once before, so here’s hoping that when their relationship inevitably goes tits up, because all of Kyra’s relationships do, Ken doesn’t find it so hard to deal with that his next date is with a bottle each of bourbon and sleeping pills.”
“Let’s not forget the baggage that young Kyra has to deal with. The abuse. The abandonment. She’s the textbook childhood trauma case. Is it any surprise that she bounces around from man to man looking for the next father figure to desperately cling to for dear life? Is it any real surprise that every relationship she has becomes toxic and damaged the moment she touches it? She’s looking for daddy in every man she’s ever lay down with and poisoning them all at the same time.” Gabriel added, shaking his head.
“Eww. I bet she calls Ken that too…” Eden said, putting her hand over her mouth as if to stifle the urge to vomit. “But let’s be honest - they were inevitable as a couple.”
“Without doubt.” Gabriel said. “The perennial victim.”
“And the man who couldn’t save his family.” Eden said, with a faux lump in her throat. “Is there ever a more perfect story than the helpless maiden and the white knight?”
“And that, right there, is why they’ll only ever be a shadow of who and what we are - Ken thinks he knows how to play games? Compared to me, he’s a beginner sitting across from a Grand Master. And whilst Kyra may think she has a sharp tongue, if she tries to trade wits with Eden Morgan she’ll find the retorts sharper than the razors Ken keeps in his gym bag. You know… Just in case.” Said Gabriel with a smile.
“So, gentlemen, have we proven that we’ve done our homework? That we know who our opponents are?” Eden asked.
Ichabod’s mouth curled into a smile.
“Then why this? The auditions? The stand-ins?” He asked.
“Because we don’t get the respect we deserve.” Eden said frostily.
“Why should we fight for a company that hopes to see us fail?” Gabriel asked.
Ichabod rolled his tongue over his teeth. He opened his mouth to speak but Rogan put a hand on his arm.
“Leave it.” Rogan said slowly.
“Seriously?” Ichabod asked.
“There’s still hope, but… This isn’t the one. We won’t convince them to change their mind.” Rogan said. “Eden. Gabriel. It’s been a pleasure as always.”
“Thank you for stopping by, gentlemen.” Gabriel said.
“Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.” Eden said with a sweet smile.
Ichabod lifted another cigarette to his lips.
“Till next time.” He said, before the pair of them turned and walked towards the door.
Rogan stopped only to wave as he left.
“Alright.” Gabriel said, looking down at his sheet to see Ichabod and Rogan’s name in the space that had been empty earlier. He let out a chuckle and crossed it out. “What’s next?”
Friday, April 14th 2021
New York City, New York
“So let me get this straight, Gabriel.” Lucy said, her arms crossed over her chest, her eyes burrowing through him like lazerbeams. “Your theory is that I still feel guilty for the past I share with my sister. That, despite the fact that we’ve had a lot of ups and downs since then, I feel so much guilt that I would intentionally try to take out my best friend…”
“Needy bitch.” Eden said from her right.
“Shut up.” Lucy added and Eden grinned. “That I would intentionally try to injure my best friend to give my sister an advantage over the two of you? Eden, who has been there for me unlike anyone else, and you who - as you well know - I came to before anyone else for help?”
“Yeah, and neither of you will tell me what it is.” Eden pouted.
“Have you ever been patient a day in your life?” Lucy snapped at her and then looked back to Gabriel. “My point is - you think I’d betray the two people I have in my life that I actually trust?”
Gabriel rolled his tongue around the inside of his mouth.
“She’s waiting, Gabriel.” Eden said, enjoying his discomfort.
“That was my general idea, yes.” Gabriel said. “But in defence of the aforementioned friendship, I did point out that you believed that it was strong enough to overcome such a betrayal as the history you two share is a little different.”
“Pfft, you can talk.” Lucy said, rolling her eyes.
“Hey, can we focus your annoyance on him and not let this reach out for me too?” Eden said.
“Right, sorry.” Lucy said. “And even if that was true, what you’re suggesting is that not only would I be putting Eden in danger, which I’ll agree she’d probably be able to get over, but by doing so I would be sending you out against Kyra and Ken. On your own. Do you honestly believe that she’d forgive me if you had to face those two in a two on one?”
“Well I mean… My point…” Gabriel stammered.
“In fact, do you honestly think that if I saw you out there on your own against the two of them that I wouldn’t just march my ass out there and stand next to you? So your theory is that I’d take out Eden just so I’d get to come out there and beat the shit out of my sister.” Lucy added. “Do you honestly believe that I think so little of our friendship that I’d even think about getting involved?”
“Of course not.” Gabriel said, looking just a little abashed. “I just know what I would do for family.”
“Right. And for better or worse, these past six months, you two have been like family to me. Now, that doesn’t mean I’d walk out there and betray Kyra either, but I damn sure know that I’m not going to do anything that might risk you or Eden getting hurt. Jesus Christ, Gabriel, I was terrified while she was getting checked over after our match.” Lucy said.
“You really are kind of pathetic.” Eden said, shooting Lucy a faux look of pity.
“Whose side are you on here?” Lucy asked.
“The tide swings depending on who I can annoy more.” Eden added with a shrug.
“Understand that at no point did I lay blame upon you - nor did I offer any ire for what I perceived to be your potential actions. I understood them, Lucy - afterall, I’ve spent a long time trying to make good on my betrayals.” Gabriel said, looking down for a moment.
“Yeah. Well…” Lucy said quietly. “You’ve made good a hundred times over with me. I’m not sure that’s possible with Kyra.”
“She’s always been lovely to me…” Eden said, smiling.
“You know, I really enjoyed hitting you with that shovel.” Lucy said.
“Rude cow.” Eden grumbled.
“I can see why, perhaps, you thought I was trying to make things up with Kyra, and I’ll admit, I did feel bad that I could have possibly made things more difficult for the two of you… So…” Lucy took a deep breath. “In the spirit of evening the odds a little, I’ll say this - Kyra is easy to rile. And if you manage it, you’ll take her head off the game. Just understand, they will see the weakness that the two of you have.”
“What weakness?” Eden asked, suddenly allowing her jovial mask to slip.
“Each other.” Lucy said smiling.
“Preposterous.” Gabriel said, shaking his head.
“Is it? Because I’m pretty confident you’d move heaven and earth just to stop the other getting hurt, and eventually, someone is going to figure that out and it’s going to be your downfall. Because whether it’s Ken and Kyra or whoever it is you face eventually, someone is going to make one of you choose between the safety of the other and winning the match - and can either of you honestly say that you’d let the other get hurt just to win?” Lucy asked.
“You know how angry I would be if Gabriel cost himself something to save me.” Eden said. “And I know how he would feel if the situation was reversed.”
“I suppose we’ll find out sooner rather than later.” Gabriel said smiling. “But as for riling up your dear sister, I think we can manage that.”
“No shit.” Lucy said, rolling her eyes.
“Well. That’s settled. Lucy wasn’t setting me up, and she’s evened the score by giving us the inside scoop on Kyra.” Eden said smiling. “I think all that’s left is for us to get very, very drunk.”
“Sounds like a plan.” Gabriel nodded.
“No, no… Not you.” Eden said, holding up a finger. “You accused my best friend of treachery. I can’t let that slide. We’re going out.”
“And I’m not invited?” Gabriel asked with chagrin, leaning back in his chair.
“Fuck no you’re not invited. Not after what you accused me of.” Lucy added.
“I’ll just stay here then.” Gabriel said. “Scheming.”
“You do that, husband.” Eden said. “Come on, Lucy - let's go and see if we can’t find you something to wear that didn’t come from Goodwill.”
“Something of yours?” Lucy asked.
“Of course.” Said Eden.
“Well in that case, could we find something that’s floor length? That way it might at least reach my knees.” Lucy replied.
“Don’t make me regret this.” Eden said as they disappeared through the doors.
Gabriel stared after them, blinking rapidly as he considered the outcome of the evening.
Tuesday, April 13th 2021
Scarsdale, New York
“Alright, this is number… sixty nine.” Gabriel said as he checked off the list. “And the last one on the list… Next!”
The doors of the audition room opened.
“What the hell are you doing here?” Eden asked. “No… No. Get out.”
“Relax, Eden.” Came a voice from the doorway. “Just hear me out.”
“Travis.” Gabriel said smiling. “How are we?”
“Good, Baal. Really good - here to solve all of your problems.” Travis Pierce said smiling.
“And how do you plan on doing that?” Gabriel asked with a fixed smile.
“By taking your place at Incursion.” Travis said with a nod.
“Really?” Asked Eden. “You and who?”
“Oh no.” Travis said, shaking his head. “No, you misunderstand - I don’t mean I’ll be replacing both of you. I mean I’d be replacing him.”
Travis pointed at Gabriel who looked from him, to Eden, back to him and then leaned back in his seat with his arms crossed.
“You want to replace me and team with Eden at Incursion?” Gabriel asked.
“Precisely.” Travis answered.
“Why the hell would either of us agree to that?” Eden asked.
“Because I know you better than anyone on this roster, Eden.” Travis said, casting Gabriel a look. “Anyone.”
“Ha.” Eden said, rolling her eyes and smiling widely.
“I’ve seen all sides of you, Eden - I’ve seen who you were before your demons, I’ve seen who you were in your darkest days. Most of all, when we were on the same page we had the entire world cowering at what we could become.” Travis said, watching her.
Eden never broke her stare, but the smile had gone.
He paused for effect, ever the showman.
“Sure, it was Jet and I who were Cooperative Champions, the greatest Cooperative Champions of all time I may add. But that was only because the Consortium knew it was better to keep the two of us apart, because no-one was ready for what that would mean.” Travis said slowly, before his mouth curled into a smile. “And if memory serves, it’s not just the Consortium who felt that way.”
“Cute.” Eden said, shaking her head slowly.
“Whilst we appreciate the offer…” Gabriel began, but Travis cut him off by lifting a hand. He never once looked at Gabriel, never took his eyes off Eden.
“Thing is, Gabriel, I don’t really care what you have to say. I’m talking to your wife, right now - you know, the organ grinder? And deep down, she knows that it’s in your best interests to sit this one out at Incursion. I mean, you’ll have the Conquest Championship to defend in the weeks leading up to Outlast. She had a week off this week, but you didn’t. So maybe she should do the right thing and give you a break while she and I show the world just how dominant the Piercing Media Network and UGWC truly are.” Travis said.
“He does have a point…” Eden said slowly, finally breaking her gaze and looking at Gabriel.
“You can’t be serious.” Gabriel answered whilst looking at Pierce whose mouth was curling into a smile.
“Travis Pierce is a lot of things, but he does have the annoying habit of making a good point every now and again.” Eden added. “The rest would do you good, and we were pretty good together.”
“Eden…” Gabriel said.
“Exactly.” Travis said stepping forward and leaning over onto the desk in front of her. “So you’re open to the idea of upgrading…”
“Oh Travis.” Eden replied as she reached out a finger and booped his nose, that annoying gesture that had so irritated Donovan Hastings once upon a time. “I upgraded a long time ago. And I’ll agree that the two of us were very, very good, but do you know what works better? Gabriel and I - and you know why? Because we respect one another as equals.”
“I respect you, Eden.” Travis said. “You know that.”
“Oh I know you do.” She said with a smile and a wink. “I don’t dislike you, Travis, in fact, I’m actually grateful for the time I spent in the Piercing Media Network. Not because of what happened and not because of what I became, but because you showed me the true power of having people around you that you can completely trust. And even if I were interested in finding someone to replace Gabriel in this match, even if I were interested at all in teaming with anyone other than him? The fact would still remain is that you and I could never, ever trust one another.”
“Stranger things have happened.” Pierce said with a smirk.
“They have.” Eden said as she looked at Gabriel with a smile.
“So, that’s a no?” Pierce said quietly.
“The thing is Travis…” Gabriel began.
“Not sure how many times I need to tell you, I’m not interested in what you have to say.” Travis said.
Gabriel smiled at the flicker of annoyance that crossed Travis’ face.
“And yet you’ll listen anyway.” Gabriel said, pausing for a moment before continuing. “Eden and I are on the verge of true greatness as a team. I’ll concur that, for the moment, The Piercing Weapons are one of the greatest teams of all time, but the fact remains that right now there isn’t a team better than Incendium on this planet. Not just in UGWC, in the entire world.”
“Then why the hell are you sat in this room looking for people to take your place?” Pierce asked, finally looking at Gabriel. “Why don’t you both prove it?”
Gabriel's mouth flickered in amusement before turning to look at Eden, finding her smiling back.
“You’re the champs.” He said. “And when I document this moment in UGWC’s history, I want to be able to say that UGWC sent their very best.”
“Thank you, Travis.” Eden said leaning forward in her chair and placing a kiss on his cheek.
He leaned back and offered her nothing more than a nod.
“I’m coming for what you have, Baal.” Travis said, smiling and backing away.
“Looking forward to it.” Gabriel said, smirking. “I’ll be defending it each week on Synergy.”
“Oh, yeah… Sure.” Travis said, nodding. “The Conquest Title too…”
Eden let out a chuckle and shook her head. Gabriel, less so. Travis turned and walked out of the door.
“So… we win this?” Eden said.
“Not for them. Not for those who want to see us fail.” Gabriel responded.
“For Incendium and our legacy.” Eden said as she reached out and gripped his arm.
“For the right to call ourselves the very best at what we do.” Gabriel added.
“And, apparently, for Travis Pierce.” Eden said, before blinking rapidly in disbelief.
“For Travis... fucking... Pierce.” Gabriel said, shaking his head. “To Incursion then.”
“To Incursion.” Eden said as Gabriel closed the folder in front of him on the table.