Post by Vivek Kowal on Jul 3, 2022 23:38:12 GMT
The sun slowly begins to rise over a small community on the outskirts of Sioux Falls. Most of the residents, both youthful and elderly, sleep blissfully unaware of the dawn of a new day. Inside one of the modest homes of this community, there is one person who is wide awake, dressed in a faded gray t-shirt and denim jeans, making one final check of the black suitcase that is in front of him, ensuring that all of his supplies are inside.
Today is the day his life truly begins. The day that he begins on his wrestling journey. The young man in question is Vivek Kowal, a boy 18 years of age with brown hair that is still messy from his slumber and a skinny frame. In the world of wrestling, this is the age when most youngsters are able to truly reach out to the world, attempting to find a promotion that will take them in. Some wait and stay in training for a little while longer and others never enter the world in the first place, but most do go on this adventure at some point. In their eyes, it is a rite of passage undertaken in order to transform them from children into mature adults
For Vivek, he had been ready for this day for what felt like his entire life. He had dedicated himself to this for his young life. Aided by one of the most renowned trainers in the area, Irvin Williams, Vivek had studied countless hours in preparation and anticipation of this day. He read both books and published journals, watched countless matches, and even assisted Irvin in training younger students in preparation for their own journeys. Whilst he enjoyed learning from the books and Irvin, what truly captured his attention were the many matches. The synergy and coordination between body and mind between combatants, the strategy undertaken in each match, and the sweet taste of victory. Vivek saw it and craved it. He would rise to the top. He would be a Wrestling Legend! It's what he was born to do.
Satisfied that he had packed everything into his suitcase, Vivek grasps his handle, and heads toward the kitchen. Arriving to the smell of a wonderful breakfast and the smile of his mother. Adalie was a pleasant woman in her early forties with an outgoing personality. She had been a constant source of support for the aspiring wrestler, and his only parent. Vivek had asked her about his father in the past, but she never said much on the subject. She did say however, that he was "A man of few words, but had a passion for wrestling and strove to be a legend, just like you." As for what happened to the man she loved, she did not know. Nobody knew. He had disappeared almost 19 years ago, shortly after Adalie found out she was pregnant with their son.
Though Vivek had inherited her outgoing nature, she still saw the same look in his eyes that his father had. "I made your favorite today. Pancakes, eggs, and plenty of bacon!"
"Your cooking is always the best, Mom! I am going to miss this!" Vivek stated as he sat down and began to devour the meal in front of him. The response made Adalie pause as a small frown crossed her face for a moment. She was proud of her son, but couldn't help the sadness and worry that began to wash over her. Would he be safe, or would he disappear like his father? Caught up in her thoughts, she hadn't realized Vivek had stopped eating and was intently looking at her, concern plastered across his face. "Mom, are you okay?"
The smile she had previously worn pops back up onto her face upon his query, "Of course sweetie. Just lost in thought. Now, did you remember to pack everything? Do you have enough underwear?" Vivek's face lights up a deep shade of red as he sheepishly nods. He was so fun to mess around with.
Soon enough, breakfast was finished. The moment she had been dreading, and the moment he had been looking forward to, had arrived. Both Vivek and Adalie stood up from the table and said nothing as they looked into one another's eyes. "Well... I guess this is it," Vivek remarks as he attempts to keep a stoic look across his face and withhold the tears from streaming down his face. Adalie on the other hand, had no problems showing her emotions, bringing her precious Vivek into a deep hug as her eyes began to sparkle. "Make your dreams come true and promise you will stay safe, Vivi. Most importantly, know that I love you very much."
Losing the battle to maintain his composure, Vivek returns the hug, his eyes beginning to water. "I promise to be careful... and I love you too." he replies in a soft voice. They stay this way for what feels like an eternity, but all things come to an end. Firming up, he separates himself from his mother, his determined glint returns to his eye. "I will be a Wrestling Legend!" he jubilantly exclaims before giving his mother one more smile as he turns around, making his way toward the front door before opening it and wandering off through the early morning breeze, heading toward Irvin's training center.
Watching Vivek take off with such determination, Adalie couldn't help but chuckle. "He's so much like you... I wish you could be here to see it, Roydon."
As Vivek crosses the small wooden bridge over the slow flowing river in Canton, he could finally hear the crowing of the rooster, signaling the start of the day for the majority of the Canton community. With luck, that means that the other wrestlers starting their journey today would just be waking up, giving Vivek the first choice of which promotion he can sign with.
Reaching the other side of the bridge, Vivek looks up and notices the familiar red and yellow facility, complete with a four pronged windmill out the front of the building. Excitement flowing through his body, Vivek races through the metal gates, sprinting up the steps to the door. Knocking loudly, he exclaims "Irvin! It's me, Vivek! Here to sign my first contract!"
The door slowly swings open and Vivek steps through, only to see the smug face of one Xavier Williams. "Took your time, didn't you Vivek?" Xavier comments with a smirk on his face. Vivek's good mood evaporated upon seeing his childhood rival was already there.
Throughout his childhood, Xavier had been the proverbial thorn in Vivek's side and his near opposite in many ways. While Vivek was confident, Xavier was arrogant. While Vivek treated others with kindness, Xavier looked down on those he thought were beneath him, especially Vivek. While Vivek worked hard to study, Xavier rested on his laurels and bragged about having a Grandpa in the Wrestling business.
Speaking of bringing up his grandfather, "Guess it doesn't hurt having family in the wrestling business, does it Vivek? Grandpa let me stay over last night, so I could get first choice. Too bad for you loser," Xavier remarks with a laugh. "Take a look at this, Vivek," Xavier remarks, procuring a contract and holding it in the air. "We haven't even left Canton and I'm already ahead of you. Hope this wasn't the one you were looking for, Vivek."
"Xavier you sneaky little..." but Xavier cuts him off. "I don't want to hear it. Besides, I can't afford to waste time talking to you. See you later." With that, Xavier was quickly still chuckling to himself, while a fuming Vivek stayed behind.
"Just you wait Xavier! We'll see who gets the last laugh when I become a Wrestling Legend first!" Not wanting Xavier to ruin this special day for him, Vivek quickly threw Xavier out of his mind and focused on the task at hand. "Irvin! Hello?"
"Is that you, Vivek? Earlier than expected, but I can't say I'm surprised. Come upstairs." echoed the familiar voice of Irvin Williams. Jogging up the stairs, Vivek found his mentor drinking a cup of coffee and standing in front of 3 additional contracts. Irvin was a man in his early fifties with a full head of gray hair. He was wearing, as always, his customary white jacket, red shirt, and a freshly ironed pair of khaki pants. He is also one of the nation's leading experts in the art of wrestling, specializing in the relationship between one's mind and their body.
Irvin turned to the youth and smiled. "Bright and early, just like Xavier. Are you ready to begin your journey?" Vivek frowns at the mention of Xavier and couldn't help but comment on Irvin's apparent favoritism
"Yeah, I'm ready. Would have been nice to know that I could have slept here for the first choice." Vivek mutters in a clearly irritated tone.
"Yes. Well... You know Xavier. Wouldn't stop bugging me until I gave in and let him stay the night. Sorry about that," Irvin replies, a little bit off-guard. "In any case, there are still 3 contracts to choose from. How about I show them to you?"
With that, Irvin places his hands on top of each of his three contracts, pushing them forward so as to reveal the names at the promotions to Vivek. "Given how much you have studied, I'm sure you are more than aware of which promotion these contracts are for. Care to tell me?" Irvin asks, a grin across his face.
In front of Vivek were three contracts.. All three of them had three letters in an icy blue hue, surrounded by a metallic themed background.. Each contained different verbiage, unique to certain circumstances. The one on the left appeared to signify a developmental level deal. The one in the middle was one to become a standard wrestler in the promotion and one appeared to have special verbiage that Vivek couldn’t make out
As Irvin had guessed, Vivek knew the promotion by heart and wasn't afraid to say it. "Sure. Intense International Wrestling. Guess that means Xavier already signed his contract. I am a bit confused about the bonus contract though?"
"I thought you might be. Normally, the three traditional contracts are more than enough. However, there are 4 wrestlers starting their journeys today and I was unable to procure an additional contract. Luckily, I was able to contact one of my associates, a man by the name of Eric, who provided me with this special contract."
Vivek perked up at that last comment, having read some of the articles published by the famous Eric.
"So, my boy. I know the inclusion of this special contract may change things a bit, but have you made a decision?" Irvin inquires, curious.
Vivek already knew what his first choice would be and smiled to himself. Xavier may have chosen first, but his first choice was still there. Glancing down at the contract made him know right away to stick with his gut. "I have made my choice, Irvin. I choose..."
"I choose the standard contract.: Vivek exclaims, a grin creeping across his face as joy fills his eyes.
"That standard contract," the surprised Williams questioned. "A good choice to be sure, but I was almost certain that you wouldn't hesitate to pick a contract with as much potential and choice as the special bonus contract. Are you sure, Vivek?"
Smiling, Vivek explains. "I did consider it sensei, but to be honest, I have had my heart set on just being able to get a contract in the first place. I don't know why, but the standard level contract just feels right to me. Besides, as a future Wrestling Legend, I am sure that I will sign a contract littered with bonuses someday." His words exude his usual confidence as his trademark grin crosses his face.
"Very well," states Irvin. Handing over one of his pens, the sensei begins a clearly prepared and often repeated lecture. "Within this contract, are the official terms of your IIW tenure. As you know, they reserve the right to modify these at any time. In addition, I have a special iPhone here, which they will use to inform you of when you will be competing and to help you converse with them when on the road, Vivek," Irvin stated as he hands the phone over. "You will have to arrange everything else on your own. Winning matches will enable you to potentially work your way up the rankings and into title contention, which will allow you to continue making a name for yourself and potentially catch the eyes of the alpha dogs within the promotion. Lose too often and your contract may be voided, either leaving you out in the cold or forcing you to return home." Irvin remarks in a serious tone. "In addition, you can attend events outside of the ring, or may be required to attend such events as management sees fit. Whether that be training clinics, live events or meet and greets with fans at any time and for any reason. They need only contact you and inform you. You may also contact me at any time you need advice using this phone and I will do my best to help in any way I can. Did you get all that, Vivek?"
"You bet. Thanks Sensei! I really appreciate it and can't wait to get started," Vivek responds as he slowly turns, lowering the pen in order to sign the contract.
"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE, VIVEK!" the sensei exclaimed. "I still have one more gift for you." Out of the pocket of his jacket, Irvin procures a shiny set of silver keys. "These are your house keys. It will be your accommodations for the duration of your stay with the IIW, so I suggest you keep them nice and safe. Otherwise, it will take a while to get another copy cut and sent to you. Take them and be sure not to lose them."
Properly admonished, Vivek's demeanor turns serious and he gives his sensei a nod of acknowledgement. After a few moments of serious observation, Irvin's smile returns. Irvin grabbed the other two contracts. "I'm going to head downstairs and wait for the others to arrive. Why don't you stay up here for a bit and get acquainted with the new contract, hm?" With that, Irvin grabbed his coffee and headed down the stairs, leaving Vivek alone with his new contract.
Alone at least, Vivek finally got a good look at the terms enclosed within his new contract. The little details that he hadn't been able to process whilst Irvin was informing him of various conditions. Some of them were in the contract. Others he stated to ensure Vivek remains on his toes at all times. Alert and primed for whatever might be thrown his way. Nervously shifting his body weight back and forth, his eyebrows rise slightly as he feels sweat formulating on his face. "I can't fail. I can't let Mom or Irvin down. This is what I have dreamt about. This is what I have wanted ever since I was a child. I know I must give one hundred percent if I am to become the Wrestling Legend I wish to be, and I will. I won't quit. I won't let anybody take this away from me, even if that means I must go beyond. If I must dig deeper than I ever have before!"
Vivek glances around the room. "Ever since my first day in this facility, I knew I wanted to have my name on the walls. I wanted people to know that I will be a Wrestling Legend. The next name to come from Canton and rise above the crop." There is a fire in his eyes. An inner fire burning brighter than the sun with the passion that drives him. His voice is sincere and with further refinement, could become one of the best wrestlers to grace the industry. "It's time." he calmly remarks as he stands up, preparing to head downstairs. A look of triumph across his face. "Let's see if any of the others have found their new home or if somebody is willing to do a little training before we set off. Make sure that I'm as sharp as I can possibly be." he quietly yet enthusiastically comments to himself, sprinting his way down the stairs.
He arrives to the sight of a boy with golden blond hair, a brown leather jacket and sky blue shirt. The boy in question was talking to Irvin. "Thank you, Mr. Sensei. I'll be sure not to let you down."
"I know you won't," responds Irvin, a joyful smile across his face. "I know you're more than ready to step out into the world and show them everything that I have taught you."
Out of the corner of his eye, the boy spots Vivek and immediately turns away from Irvin to look him dead in the eyes. "So, you're heading to the IIW, ain't ya?" The boy proclaims, his eyes continuing to look deep into Vivek's own.
Gazing at the boy, Vivek heatedly responds, energy flowing through his veins "Yes! I woke up early so that I could make sure nobody got it before me! My name is Vivek and I plan on being the newest Wrestling Legend!"
"We'll just have to wait and see about that then, won't we? How about a little match to see which one of us can say they got their journey off to the right start?" the boy requests with a firm look within his eyes.
"I'm willing to host the battle in the gym if you two wish, Zlatko." Irvin states, a prideful smile creeping onto his face.
The blond haired boy, or rather Zlatko, pauses before a smug smile appears across his face. "So, what do you say, Vivek? You want to showcase your skills before we head off? It'll even be like training all over again in the gym. Or are you worried you'll lose?"
That last comment appears to strike a nerve in Vivek, as his face contorts into a scowl. "You're on, Zlatko. I'm not afraid of losing to anyone."
"Oh... I guess Xavier was wrong about you when he said you were cowardly and scared of losing. I'm glad he was though, because it'll make it all the sweeter when I embarrass you and show you're not ready for the big leagues."
One would think Vivek would be mature enough to let the insult slide... Well, that person has clearly never been around Vivek on a regular basis. A childhood full of poking and prodding from Xavier, his inherited outgoing personality from his mother, and his young age produce a predictable answer. "If anyone's getting embarrassed, it's you! I'll mop the floor with you!"
"Now, Vivek," started Irvin, but Vivek quickly interrupted him.
"No Irvin! I'm going to teach Zlatko some respect. You've seen how hard I've worked to get to this point. Have some faith in me," Vivek resolutely stated.
Irvin knew Vivek wouldn't be swayed and shot him a reluctant nod.
Turning around, Zlatko leers at Vivek. "Make sure you don't regret that after we're finished."
The two stared each other down for what felt like an eternity until the sensei finally stepped in to reestablish some semblance of order. "Now, let's not let this start here. Settle down, at least until we enter the gym. Follow me."
Striding forward, Zlatko swoops up his contract, passing both Irvin and Vivek, and heads toward the gym. Maintaining the confident smirk that had plastered itself across his face.
Vivek and Irvin followed closely behind, with the latter giving concerned looks toward his young protégé.
The trio soon made it to the gym and the two wrestlers stood opposite one another inside of the training ring. Irvin took his position in the center to serve as the referee for this impromptu match up. "This will be a standard match. The match will end when one of the competitors is knocked out, pinned or forced to submit." before signaling the start of the match. Shooting one final look at the boys as he does.
Zlatko was assured of his victory, a vicious smile painted across his face with a manic gleam hidden within his eyes. Vivek, on the other hand, just stood there in a calm and collected manner. What Irvin did notice was the look within the boy's eyes. That calculating look that exuded a great strength. It was a look he hadn't seen in almost 19 years.
"Begin!" Irvin shouted.
The duo of Vivek and Zlatko immediately began to circle one another. Arms outstretched and looking for an opening to attack.
"Alright. Let's make this quick. I can't afford to waste my time here when I could be learning more about my new promotion and conjuring up ways to get to the top." thought Zlatko as confidence continued to exude around him and he circled around the ring. Salivating at the prospect of acquiring his first professional victory so early into his journey.
Meanwhile, Vivek was calm in his thoughts, speaking softly in a voice that nobody else could hear. "Okay... I know this wasn't the way I envisioned beginning my wrestling career. I know I was a bit rash to accept the challenge and am risking injury before I've even truly begun, however, I wouldn't be able to call myself a wrestler if I ran from this. If I let him win. If I let him get under my skin and into my head."
Vivek turned to stare at the contract positioned on a chair just outside of the ring, giving it a nod before turning to face Zlatko.
Zlatko had already gone for the first move of the match in the meantime, diving at full speed down at the legs of Vivek and looking for a double leg take down. He wanted to end this quickly and get on top from the very start.
For Vivek, everything seemed to slow down as he analyzed the situation. Barring any hidden secrets, he knew that Zlatko was heavily influenced by Slavic martial artists and would rely on a mixture of speed and grappling to wear him down. Just as he relied heavily on his own speed. No advantage to either man in that regard, given both men were naturally athletic and neither knew the meaning of the word quit. A pretty even match at first glance, but Vivek knew better.
Leaping into the air, Vivek jumps to the right, avoiding the move as Zlatko plummeted onto the mat chest first and giving Vivek an opening to launch his own counter-attack in response. As Zlatko slowly rose, Vivek made his first move.
Grabbing the wrist of Zlatko, Vivek would wrap his arm around the head of his opponent, kneeing him in the stomach to cause him to double over before falling back, connecting with a DDT that caused the ring to slightly shake as it attempted to hold up the pair's body weight with the force of the move.
Agitated by this, Zlatko rises. Attempting another double leg takedown. This time torpedoing himself right at the knees and shins of his opponent in an attempt to cause him to crumble.
Vivek couldn't help but be disappointed at the predictable aggressive strategy that Zlatko was employing, but with honor and pride on the line, he stayed focused. Jumping to the left this time, he maintains the dodging technique that had worked prior. Making sure to keep his evasions concise and unpredictable.
The match continued in the same fashion. Zlatko lunged for an attack, Vivek either dodging or nailing his own attacks in response and then the two staring deep into the others eyes. This continued for some time until Zlatko was able to lash out and connect with a clothesline to send both men to the canvas beneath them.
"Finally. Are you ready to fight, or is this just going to be a game of chicken?"
A smirk finally crosses Vivek's face as he looks at Zlatko. "Be careful what you wish for."
As the two rose, Zlatko prepared to charge in with a spear, but this time Vivek reacted differently. Taking a deep breath, he waited for Zlatko to get as close as possible to him before grabbing him, lifting him into the air before twisting his body and landing atop of Zlatko. Sandwiching his opponent between him and the mat. Zlatko, exhausted from running around over and over and with little energy left, was unable to counter or prevent Irvin's hand from slapping the canvas three times.
With a sigh of relief, Irvin called the match. "The winner, by pinfall! VIVEK!"
Zlatko still couldn't fathom how that punk beat him. "You must have cheated or something. No way a talentless hack like you could beat me!"
Vivek couldn't help but brag a bit as he retorted. "I didn't need to, Zlatko. You made the match far too easy. You see, we both have similar styles that would indicate that we are evenly matched, but if you knew either one of us, you would know that I held an advantage over you from the start."
Annoyed and angered by this assertion, Zlatko asks, "That is?"
"Endurance," Vivek replied. "I knew that I had more natural endurance than you, and keeping this in mind, it was easy to simply dodge your attacks. Whittle down your energy and tire you out whilst conserving my own energy with short, efficient movements. After that, all that was left to do was get you into position and hit you with the South Of Sioux and you were out for the count. You lose, Zlatko."
Done with the bully, Vivek walked to his contract. Picking it up as he brought it to eye level. Smirking at the words in front of him. "Next up, the IIW. It's time to show them that I'm not just another wannabe. That I'm not planning on walking away until I have achieved my goal. Until I become a Wrestling Legend! No matter what situation I might find myself in." He preens himself, gently rubbing his shoulder as his body begins to relax.
Solemnly, Zlatko rises up from the mat. Knowing that for now, Vivek has his number. He calls out, "Next time won't be the same!"
Turning, Vivek glances at Zlatko as the latter sulks off, remarking, "I'll be ready," before walking off in the opposite direction. He may have won today, but he knows that at some point in the future, Zlatko will want to go again and that he will be more prepared to counteract Vivek's dodging tactics. It could very well get ugly the next time they do battle and he knew he would have to prepare himself for war. Much like the battle to the top he will face in the IIW.
Just before he walks out of the gym, out of the corner of his eye, he makes out a shadowy figure. Slender and petite, with platinum blonde hair. She appears to be gazing directly at him as a sense of familiarity washing over him. He knows that look. Could it be her? Deep in thought, he continues to make his way out of the gym, preparing to truly commence his travels into the world of wrestling and the greater beyond. Whoever she is, he'll have to find out later. It is then that a small smile can be seen peering across the girl's face...
Today is the day his life truly begins. The day that he begins on his wrestling journey. The young man in question is Vivek Kowal, a boy 18 years of age with brown hair that is still messy from his slumber and a skinny frame. In the world of wrestling, this is the age when most youngsters are able to truly reach out to the world, attempting to find a promotion that will take them in. Some wait and stay in training for a little while longer and others never enter the world in the first place, but most do go on this adventure at some point. In their eyes, it is a rite of passage undertaken in order to transform them from children into mature adults
For Vivek, he had been ready for this day for what felt like his entire life. He had dedicated himself to this for his young life. Aided by one of the most renowned trainers in the area, Irvin Williams, Vivek had studied countless hours in preparation and anticipation of this day. He read both books and published journals, watched countless matches, and even assisted Irvin in training younger students in preparation for their own journeys. Whilst he enjoyed learning from the books and Irvin, what truly captured his attention were the many matches. The synergy and coordination between body and mind between combatants, the strategy undertaken in each match, and the sweet taste of victory. Vivek saw it and craved it. He would rise to the top. He would be a Wrestling Legend! It's what he was born to do.
Satisfied that he had packed everything into his suitcase, Vivek grasps his handle, and heads toward the kitchen. Arriving to the smell of a wonderful breakfast and the smile of his mother. Adalie was a pleasant woman in her early forties with an outgoing personality. She had been a constant source of support for the aspiring wrestler, and his only parent. Vivek had asked her about his father in the past, but she never said much on the subject. She did say however, that he was "A man of few words, but had a passion for wrestling and strove to be a legend, just like you." As for what happened to the man she loved, she did not know. Nobody knew. He had disappeared almost 19 years ago, shortly after Adalie found out she was pregnant with their son.
Though Vivek had inherited her outgoing nature, she still saw the same look in his eyes that his father had. "I made your favorite today. Pancakes, eggs, and plenty of bacon!"
"Your cooking is always the best, Mom! I am going to miss this!" Vivek stated as he sat down and began to devour the meal in front of him. The response made Adalie pause as a small frown crossed her face for a moment. She was proud of her son, but couldn't help the sadness and worry that began to wash over her. Would he be safe, or would he disappear like his father? Caught up in her thoughts, she hadn't realized Vivek had stopped eating and was intently looking at her, concern plastered across his face. "Mom, are you okay?"
The smile she had previously worn pops back up onto her face upon his query, "Of course sweetie. Just lost in thought. Now, did you remember to pack everything? Do you have enough underwear?" Vivek's face lights up a deep shade of red as he sheepishly nods. He was so fun to mess around with.
Soon enough, breakfast was finished. The moment she had been dreading, and the moment he had been looking forward to, had arrived. Both Vivek and Adalie stood up from the table and said nothing as they looked into one another's eyes. "Well... I guess this is it," Vivek remarks as he attempts to keep a stoic look across his face and withhold the tears from streaming down his face. Adalie on the other hand, had no problems showing her emotions, bringing her precious Vivek into a deep hug as her eyes began to sparkle. "Make your dreams come true and promise you will stay safe, Vivi. Most importantly, know that I love you very much."
Losing the battle to maintain his composure, Vivek returns the hug, his eyes beginning to water. "I promise to be careful... and I love you too." he replies in a soft voice. They stay this way for what feels like an eternity, but all things come to an end. Firming up, he separates himself from his mother, his determined glint returns to his eye. "I will be a Wrestling Legend!" he jubilantly exclaims before giving his mother one more smile as he turns around, making his way toward the front door before opening it and wandering off through the early morning breeze, heading toward Irvin's training center.
Watching Vivek take off with such determination, Adalie couldn't help but chuckle. "He's so much like you... I wish you could be here to see it, Roydon."
As Vivek crosses the small wooden bridge over the slow flowing river in Canton, he could finally hear the crowing of the rooster, signaling the start of the day for the majority of the Canton community. With luck, that means that the other wrestlers starting their journey today would just be waking up, giving Vivek the first choice of which promotion he can sign with.
Reaching the other side of the bridge, Vivek looks up and notices the familiar red and yellow facility, complete with a four pronged windmill out the front of the building. Excitement flowing through his body, Vivek races through the metal gates, sprinting up the steps to the door. Knocking loudly, he exclaims "Irvin! It's me, Vivek! Here to sign my first contract!"
The door slowly swings open and Vivek steps through, only to see the smug face of one Xavier Williams. "Took your time, didn't you Vivek?" Xavier comments with a smirk on his face. Vivek's good mood evaporated upon seeing his childhood rival was already there.
Throughout his childhood, Xavier had been the proverbial thorn in Vivek's side and his near opposite in many ways. While Vivek was confident, Xavier was arrogant. While Vivek treated others with kindness, Xavier looked down on those he thought were beneath him, especially Vivek. While Vivek worked hard to study, Xavier rested on his laurels and bragged about having a Grandpa in the Wrestling business.
Speaking of bringing up his grandfather, "Guess it doesn't hurt having family in the wrestling business, does it Vivek? Grandpa let me stay over last night, so I could get first choice. Too bad for you loser," Xavier remarks with a laugh. "Take a look at this, Vivek," Xavier remarks, procuring a contract and holding it in the air. "We haven't even left Canton and I'm already ahead of you. Hope this wasn't the one you were looking for, Vivek."
"Xavier you sneaky little..." but Xavier cuts him off. "I don't want to hear it. Besides, I can't afford to waste time talking to you. See you later." With that, Xavier was quickly still chuckling to himself, while a fuming Vivek stayed behind.
"Just you wait Xavier! We'll see who gets the last laugh when I become a Wrestling Legend first!" Not wanting Xavier to ruin this special day for him, Vivek quickly threw Xavier out of his mind and focused on the task at hand. "Irvin! Hello?"
"Is that you, Vivek? Earlier than expected, but I can't say I'm surprised. Come upstairs." echoed the familiar voice of Irvin Williams. Jogging up the stairs, Vivek found his mentor drinking a cup of coffee and standing in front of 3 additional contracts. Irvin was a man in his early fifties with a full head of gray hair. He was wearing, as always, his customary white jacket, red shirt, and a freshly ironed pair of khaki pants. He is also one of the nation's leading experts in the art of wrestling, specializing in the relationship between one's mind and their body.
Irvin turned to the youth and smiled. "Bright and early, just like Xavier. Are you ready to begin your journey?" Vivek frowns at the mention of Xavier and couldn't help but comment on Irvin's apparent favoritism
"Yeah, I'm ready. Would have been nice to know that I could have slept here for the first choice." Vivek mutters in a clearly irritated tone.
"Yes. Well... You know Xavier. Wouldn't stop bugging me until I gave in and let him stay the night. Sorry about that," Irvin replies, a little bit off-guard. "In any case, there are still 3 contracts to choose from. How about I show them to you?"
With that, Irvin places his hands on top of each of his three contracts, pushing them forward so as to reveal the names at the promotions to Vivek. "Given how much you have studied, I'm sure you are more than aware of which promotion these contracts are for. Care to tell me?" Irvin asks, a grin across his face.
In front of Vivek were three contracts.. All three of them had three letters in an icy blue hue, surrounded by a metallic themed background.. Each contained different verbiage, unique to certain circumstances. The one on the left appeared to signify a developmental level deal. The one in the middle was one to become a standard wrestler in the promotion and one appeared to have special verbiage that Vivek couldn’t make out
As Irvin had guessed, Vivek knew the promotion by heart and wasn't afraid to say it. "Sure. Intense International Wrestling. Guess that means Xavier already signed his contract. I am a bit confused about the bonus contract though?"
"I thought you might be. Normally, the three traditional contracts are more than enough. However, there are 4 wrestlers starting their journeys today and I was unable to procure an additional contract. Luckily, I was able to contact one of my associates, a man by the name of Eric, who provided me with this special contract."
Vivek perked up at that last comment, having read some of the articles published by the famous Eric.
"So, my boy. I know the inclusion of this special contract may change things a bit, but have you made a decision?" Irvin inquires, curious.
Vivek already knew what his first choice would be and smiled to himself. Xavier may have chosen first, but his first choice was still there. Glancing down at the contract made him know right away to stick with his gut. "I have made my choice, Irvin. I choose..."
"I choose the standard contract.: Vivek exclaims, a grin creeping across his face as joy fills his eyes.
"That standard contract," the surprised Williams questioned. "A good choice to be sure, but I was almost certain that you wouldn't hesitate to pick a contract with as much potential and choice as the special bonus contract. Are you sure, Vivek?"
Smiling, Vivek explains. "I did consider it sensei, but to be honest, I have had my heart set on just being able to get a contract in the first place. I don't know why, but the standard level contract just feels right to me. Besides, as a future Wrestling Legend, I am sure that I will sign a contract littered with bonuses someday." His words exude his usual confidence as his trademark grin crosses his face.
"Very well," states Irvin. Handing over one of his pens, the sensei begins a clearly prepared and often repeated lecture. "Within this contract, are the official terms of your IIW tenure. As you know, they reserve the right to modify these at any time. In addition, I have a special iPhone here, which they will use to inform you of when you will be competing and to help you converse with them when on the road, Vivek," Irvin stated as he hands the phone over. "You will have to arrange everything else on your own. Winning matches will enable you to potentially work your way up the rankings and into title contention, which will allow you to continue making a name for yourself and potentially catch the eyes of the alpha dogs within the promotion. Lose too often and your contract may be voided, either leaving you out in the cold or forcing you to return home." Irvin remarks in a serious tone. "In addition, you can attend events outside of the ring, or may be required to attend such events as management sees fit. Whether that be training clinics, live events or meet and greets with fans at any time and for any reason. They need only contact you and inform you. You may also contact me at any time you need advice using this phone and I will do my best to help in any way I can. Did you get all that, Vivek?"
"You bet. Thanks Sensei! I really appreciate it and can't wait to get started," Vivek responds as he slowly turns, lowering the pen in order to sign the contract.
"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE, VIVEK!" the sensei exclaimed. "I still have one more gift for you." Out of the pocket of his jacket, Irvin procures a shiny set of silver keys. "These are your house keys. It will be your accommodations for the duration of your stay with the IIW, so I suggest you keep them nice and safe. Otherwise, it will take a while to get another copy cut and sent to you. Take them and be sure not to lose them."
Properly admonished, Vivek's demeanor turns serious and he gives his sensei a nod of acknowledgement. After a few moments of serious observation, Irvin's smile returns. Irvin grabbed the other two contracts. "I'm going to head downstairs and wait for the others to arrive. Why don't you stay up here for a bit and get acquainted with the new contract, hm?" With that, Irvin grabbed his coffee and headed down the stairs, leaving Vivek alone with his new contract.
Alone at least, Vivek finally got a good look at the terms enclosed within his new contract. The little details that he hadn't been able to process whilst Irvin was informing him of various conditions. Some of them were in the contract. Others he stated to ensure Vivek remains on his toes at all times. Alert and primed for whatever might be thrown his way. Nervously shifting his body weight back and forth, his eyebrows rise slightly as he feels sweat formulating on his face. "I can't fail. I can't let Mom or Irvin down. This is what I have dreamt about. This is what I have wanted ever since I was a child. I know I must give one hundred percent if I am to become the Wrestling Legend I wish to be, and I will. I won't quit. I won't let anybody take this away from me, even if that means I must go beyond. If I must dig deeper than I ever have before!"
Vivek glances around the room. "Ever since my first day in this facility, I knew I wanted to have my name on the walls. I wanted people to know that I will be a Wrestling Legend. The next name to come from Canton and rise above the crop." There is a fire in his eyes. An inner fire burning brighter than the sun with the passion that drives him. His voice is sincere and with further refinement, could become one of the best wrestlers to grace the industry. "It's time." he calmly remarks as he stands up, preparing to head downstairs. A look of triumph across his face. "Let's see if any of the others have found their new home or if somebody is willing to do a little training before we set off. Make sure that I'm as sharp as I can possibly be." he quietly yet enthusiastically comments to himself, sprinting his way down the stairs.
He arrives to the sight of a boy with golden blond hair, a brown leather jacket and sky blue shirt. The boy in question was talking to Irvin. "Thank you, Mr. Sensei. I'll be sure not to let you down."
"I know you won't," responds Irvin, a joyful smile across his face. "I know you're more than ready to step out into the world and show them everything that I have taught you."
Out of the corner of his eye, the boy spots Vivek and immediately turns away from Irvin to look him dead in the eyes. "So, you're heading to the IIW, ain't ya?" The boy proclaims, his eyes continuing to look deep into Vivek's own.
Gazing at the boy, Vivek heatedly responds, energy flowing through his veins "Yes! I woke up early so that I could make sure nobody got it before me! My name is Vivek and I plan on being the newest Wrestling Legend!"
"We'll just have to wait and see about that then, won't we? How about a little match to see which one of us can say they got their journey off to the right start?" the boy requests with a firm look within his eyes.
"I'm willing to host the battle in the gym if you two wish, Zlatko." Irvin states, a prideful smile creeping onto his face.
The blond haired boy, or rather Zlatko, pauses before a smug smile appears across his face. "So, what do you say, Vivek? You want to showcase your skills before we head off? It'll even be like training all over again in the gym. Or are you worried you'll lose?"
That last comment appears to strike a nerve in Vivek, as his face contorts into a scowl. "You're on, Zlatko. I'm not afraid of losing to anyone."
"Oh... I guess Xavier was wrong about you when he said you were cowardly and scared of losing. I'm glad he was though, because it'll make it all the sweeter when I embarrass you and show you're not ready for the big leagues."
One would think Vivek would be mature enough to let the insult slide... Well, that person has clearly never been around Vivek on a regular basis. A childhood full of poking and prodding from Xavier, his inherited outgoing personality from his mother, and his young age produce a predictable answer. "If anyone's getting embarrassed, it's you! I'll mop the floor with you!"
"Now, Vivek," started Irvin, but Vivek quickly interrupted him.
"No Irvin! I'm going to teach Zlatko some respect. You've seen how hard I've worked to get to this point. Have some faith in me," Vivek resolutely stated.
Irvin knew Vivek wouldn't be swayed and shot him a reluctant nod.
Turning around, Zlatko leers at Vivek. "Make sure you don't regret that after we're finished."
The two stared each other down for what felt like an eternity until the sensei finally stepped in to reestablish some semblance of order. "Now, let's not let this start here. Settle down, at least until we enter the gym. Follow me."
Striding forward, Zlatko swoops up his contract, passing both Irvin and Vivek, and heads toward the gym. Maintaining the confident smirk that had plastered itself across his face.
Vivek and Irvin followed closely behind, with the latter giving concerned looks toward his young protégé.
The trio soon made it to the gym and the two wrestlers stood opposite one another inside of the training ring. Irvin took his position in the center to serve as the referee for this impromptu match up. "This will be a standard match. The match will end when one of the competitors is knocked out, pinned or forced to submit." before signaling the start of the match. Shooting one final look at the boys as he does.
Zlatko was assured of his victory, a vicious smile painted across his face with a manic gleam hidden within his eyes. Vivek, on the other hand, just stood there in a calm and collected manner. What Irvin did notice was the look within the boy's eyes. That calculating look that exuded a great strength. It was a look he hadn't seen in almost 19 years.
"Begin!" Irvin shouted.
The duo of Vivek and Zlatko immediately began to circle one another. Arms outstretched and looking for an opening to attack.
"Alright. Let's make this quick. I can't afford to waste my time here when I could be learning more about my new promotion and conjuring up ways to get to the top." thought Zlatko as confidence continued to exude around him and he circled around the ring. Salivating at the prospect of acquiring his first professional victory so early into his journey.
Meanwhile, Vivek was calm in his thoughts, speaking softly in a voice that nobody else could hear. "Okay... I know this wasn't the way I envisioned beginning my wrestling career. I know I was a bit rash to accept the challenge and am risking injury before I've even truly begun, however, I wouldn't be able to call myself a wrestler if I ran from this. If I let him win. If I let him get under my skin and into my head."
Vivek turned to stare at the contract positioned on a chair just outside of the ring, giving it a nod before turning to face Zlatko.
Zlatko had already gone for the first move of the match in the meantime, diving at full speed down at the legs of Vivek and looking for a double leg take down. He wanted to end this quickly and get on top from the very start.
For Vivek, everything seemed to slow down as he analyzed the situation. Barring any hidden secrets, he knew that Zlatko was heavily influenced by Slavic martial artists and would rely on a mixture of speed and grappling to wear him down. Just as he relied heavily on his own speed. No advantage to either man in that regard, given both men were naturally athletic and neither knew the meaning of the word quit. A pretty even match at first glance, but Vivek knew better.
Leaping into the air, Vivek jumps to the right, avoiding the move as Zlatko plummeted onto the mat chest first and giving Vivek an opening to launch his own counter-attack in response. As Zlatko slowly rose, Vivek made his first move.
Grabbing the wrist of Zlatko, Vivek would wrap his arm around the head of his opponent, kneeing him in the stomach to cause him to double over before falling back, connecting with a DDT that caused the ring to slightly shake as it attempted to hold up the pair's body weight with the force of the move.
Agitated by this, Zlatko rises. Attempting another double leg takedown. This time torpedoing himself right at the knees and shins of his opponent in an attempt to cause him to crumble.
Vivek couldn't help but be disappointed at the predictable aggressive strategy that Zlatko was employing, but with honor and pride on the line, he stayed focused. Jumping to the left this time, he maintains the dodging technique that had worked prior. Making sure to keep his evasions concise and unpredictable.
The match continued in the same fashion. Zlatko lunged for an attack, Vivek either dodging or nailing his own attacks in response and then the two staring deep into the others eyes. This continued for some time until Zlatko was able to lash out and connect with a clothesline to send both men to the canvas beneath them.
"Finally. Are you ready to fight, or is this just going to be a game of chicken?"
A smirk finally crosses Vivek's face as he looks at Zlatko. "Be careful what you wish for."
As the two rose, Zlatko prepared to charge in with a spear, but this time Vivek reacted differently. Taking a deep breath, he waited for Zlatko to get as close as possible to him before grabbing him, lifting him into the air before twisting his body and landing atop of Zlatko. Sandwiching his opponent between him and the mat. Zlatko, exhausted from running around over and over and with little energy left, was unable to counter or prevent Irvin's hand from slapping the canvas three times.
With a sigh of relief, Irvin called the match. "The winner, by pinfall! VIVEK!"
Zlatko still couldn't fathom how that punk beat him. "You must have cheated or something. No way a talentless hack like you could beat me!"
Vivek couldn't help but brag a bit as he retorted. "I didn't need to, Zlatko. You made the match far too easy. You see, we both have similar styles that would indicate that we are evenly matched, but if you knew either one of us, you would know that I held an advantage over you from the start."
Annoyed and angered by this assertion, Zlatko asks, "That is?"
"Endurance," Vivek replied. "I knew that I had more natural endurance than you, and keeping this in mind, it was easy to simply dodge your attacks. Whittle down your energy and tire you out whilst conserving my own energy with short, efficient movements. After that, all that was left to do was get you into position and hit you with the South Of Sioux and you were out for the count. You lose, Zlatko."
Done with the bully, Vivek walked to his contract. Picking it up as he brought it to eye level. Smirking at the words in front of him. "Next up, the IIW. It's time to show them that I'm not just another wannabe. That I'm not planning on walking away until I have achieved my goal. Until I become a Wrestling Legend! No matter what situation I might find myself in." He preens himself, gently rubbing his shoulder as his body begins to relax.
Solemnly, Zlatko rises up from the mat. Knowing that for now, Vivek has his number. He calls out, "Next time won't be the same!"
Turning, Vivek glances at Zlatko as the latter sulks off, remarking, "I'll be ready," before walking off in the opposite direction. He may have won today, but he knows that at some point in the future, Zlatko will want to go again and that he will be more prepared to counteract Vivek's dodging tactics. It could very well get ugly the next time they do battle and he knew he would have to prepare himself for war. Much like the battle to the top he will face in the IIW.
Just before he walks out of the gym, out of the corner of his eye, he makes out a shadowy figure. Slender and petite, with platinum blonde hair. She appears to be gazing directly at him as a sense of familiarity washing over him. He knows that look. Could it be her? Deep in thought, he continues to make his way out of the gym, preparing to truly commence his travels into the world of wrestling and the greater beyond. Whoever she is, he'll have to find out later. It is then that a small smile can be seen peering across the girl's face...