Post by themoodyone on Jan 27, 2020 2:55:45 GMT -6
kinna condensed and not haing quite enough match but an opening looking forward to feedback
A lifetime down a life line ahead
The day to day administrative work was the part that was more draining and soul crushing then anything which is why she usually saved it for the odd hours of the am. Scanning over student reviews, expenses, maintinance request, and more then a few scam attempts, and publicity offers that read almost like extortion. Easter leaned back and rubbed at her eyes before turning her attention to a wall of monitors. Some of the monitors showcasing earlier work from the students, a few showcasing older pay per views dating back to the days of Selphie, the nighthawks in the CWR, and the last days of The Empire. As she prepared to return to the stack of papers in front of her Easter let out an exhausted sigh when the phone rang. She raised an eyebrow knowing the hour and how few people would have the direct line as the schools main number would have set off a lap top notifacation before reaching the phone.
Easter “Hello Julia Easter. ….. Ana? ….. Bloody hell girl its been a lifetime. The hell you up to, and at this hour. … yeah time zones are still a thing..... Invicta? Ana … its like three a.m. a little too early for Latin.... klingon or whatever..... look it up she says. “
Analicia Morales had been one of her longest running frenimies in the wrestling buiness one she had not recalled hearing from since some time during the final days of her last run with the WWCF. As she entered in the site Analicia suggested Julia rolled her eyes.
Easter “Ok what comic con did they abduct this roster from I am wearing shoes that probably have more experience then these kids..... the staff?”
Going to the page requested she almost dropped the phone and slammed her leg in shock.
Easter “Are you out of your mind? …. Nevermnd I can see the evidence … You have children now remember your supposed to be trying to be retired, focused on the little ones. ….. Come see the operation? Your serious ? Analicia be serious we were already a lil too old ta be doing this around Freedom x. …. You'd be surprised how content one can be working with students and succedding vicariously through them.... Only because its you but I make no promises. “
Hanging up she swiftly worked to make travel araingements switching between laptop to cellphone as she started to call her assistant.
Easter “Emily. I didn't wake you did I?.... Right I forgot Angel hired you but stlll... family emergency just came. …. She called you first? …... I can be hard headed? …. This is insane.. Just need you to do the paralegal and admin for a few days and make sure Chainz and Kit can focus on the students.. Thank you.”
Hanging up she bagged up the laptop and headed out only to stop at a small candle and shrine at the stand beside the office door. Wetting two fingers she put out the candle she always lit in memory of Angel. The Hawks Nest had been Angel Garzas dream and her way of carrying on as she couldn't have children or more so wouldn't so as to avoid passing on an geneticdefect. After Angel passed the schools control fell to her and Chainz Macarther, who was waiting just outside at reception. He had been the man who had broken her into the business. Seeing him rise assisted by a cane which was mostly for show especially once you got him around aspiring students or a corner booth of bar maids. arm raised offering up a gym bag. She chuckled and waved it off
Easter “So she called you too, I ain't signing up for anything Chainz that ship sailed, forgot its keys, went back and sailed again. Hell I turned down more then one offer just this week. This is about making sure Anas restlessness hasn't put her children in danger.”
Chainz “if thats what you gotta tell yourself darlin. .. but your a wrestler an you have been looking for ways to scratch that itch agian fur the longest time an we both know it … Sides how often have you ever said no to your friends especially that one.”
Easter took the bag and added it to the laptop bag weighting down her right shoulder.
Easter “Not often enough. I imagine my career might have lasted longer and been a little more successful if I had.”
Chainz “but not as fun an you know it. Sides it aint over jus spaced out and successful has manhy a margin and marker in many different eyes. “
Still an oak and a fountain of wisdom. Part of her wanted to stay and discuss this new, ….. whatever this was with him more. But as she thought about it and knew somewhere he and Emily clearly seem to know her better, know what was best for her better then shed did or at least more then she was willing to admit she recalled much of they're younger days.
Easter “ I know its a weird question especially seeing how many of them grey hairs I probably gave you. But why did you care so much to take in a lil feral man hater like me after already losing your daughter and a wife to wrestling?”
Chainz “Cause if Elie was so willing to follow in her fathers footsteps she'd go behind my back to get the schoolin and find herself a place that would hire her I'd a done her memory a dis service walking away. Liz was too much a lady and maybe a lil too much a mother ta git that. Sides you an Ellie woulda hit it off right proper an been quite the force ta be reckoned with . Sure you were a man hating feral. But there was somethin in you that reminded me so much a her it'd a been wrong not ta teach you how to turn that fire into a wrestler, and I never once regretted it. I have been, an always will be proud a you Julia Christine Easter.”
Easter “Even after how the press dogged you though? I mean good lord they accused you of everything from trying to replace Ellie to having an affair with me.”
Chainz “Press is press. They wanted a story, they only saw how it looked so they filled in the blanks with what would git the most attention truth beside the fact. “
Something else she wasn't looking forward to. The wrestling press she could already piece together where they're questions would go and how much of it would go at her for her age, time away, and the dubiousness of Anas looking to sign her in the first place. Lost a little in already rearing some push back, already feeling like a momet in a Cinema Sins video.. ”character profoundly professes how they aren't going to do something we all know they will clichee.” Only to be grounded and brought back to the momemt by a friendly embrace by the old man.
Chainz “ And don't you worry none we'll keep the lights on, the door open and the building standing while you go an do what you do best.”
She almost wanted to deny that she was in, that she was even thinking of returning to the mainstream wrestling scene and a full time schedule. But could feel the itch, could hear some part of her letting out a primal scream at even the tease of release that would come with getting back out there.
Easter “No promises, and I called Emily she'll handle the funds, the paper work, and the administrative so that you can stick to the students.. Try a little to get along. I still recall how many arguments tween you two Angel had to break up.”
The old man chuckled and set a hand on her shoulder.
Chainz “Was always in good fun gal reminds me a lil too much a Angels ice queen that I just worked to find her wild side. But anything that keeps me away from law dogs and accountants will be a good thing even Em.”
Taking him in one last hug she could feel a tear fall, a happy tear she had to imagine as she then headed out of the door.
Making it official
Several days later walking out of the grand ball room beside Analicia she couldn't help but notice that Ana almost seem to have drake Connors gift for never aging and in keeping in fighters trim, an even more amazing fact after having several children. As they made they're way out to the parking lot Analicia broke the almost awkward silence.
Analicia “So what do you think?”
Easter “Hell of a set up covering everything from merch, to promo and interview setups, and social media training. The production value is on point. Looks like you actually almost thought this through.”
Analicia “ almost?”
Easter “Hiring Drake? Reaching out to those around me to try and talk me back into the ring? ... Ana you have to know how that looks.”
Analicia “Like I want the best in what is a golden age of wrestling especially if you can provide an alternative to Conneticet. “
Easter “And you don't think we are getting a ittle old for this. I mean you and Drake know better then even me what the backstage mess was, the politics, the horse shit, the mess of creative and promotor meddling manipultion and...”
Analicia “Something we learned more thena few lessons from, lessons in how to do it right. Make it all about the show, all about the competition, forget the friendships and the connection and make it about the product. “
Easter “An alternative while you are bringing in old names like myself and Connors?”
Analicia “Aren't you the one that said that this is a young roster whats wrong with making sure to add some more experienced talent. Healthy mix of styles, eras as well as making the whole thing a learning experience for all involved.”
Easter “Could also look like a grab for nostalgia or maybe high end enhancement talent to put the new kids on the block over.”
Analicia “If that's all I wanted I wouldn't have wasted your time. I'd have called other people would have looked over the releases of those other companies. I called, I went out of my way to get a hold of you cause I wanted you. Want Julia Easter. Come on Jules you didn't come all the way out here to tell me no to my face out of respect. I saw you eyes as we went down to the ring watched you come up with ideas for insane dives and stunts that would stick a middle finger to all those sharpening theyre knives or prepaing theyre shovels to try and knock you into a career grave yard. “
She stepped from the side to come face to face with Easter.
Analicia “Look me in the eye and tell me your too old for this shit. That some part of you doesn't want this, wasn't just turning down all those other offers for the right thing, the real thing to come along. A fresh start on the ground floor of something great. Convince me its enough for you to succeed through your students, through the triumphs of your niece. If you can do that we part here and now as friends.”
Analicia seeing the look on her old friends face, a silently contemplative one pulled a small packet of papers form the inside pocket of her suit jacket and opened them onto the hood of the rental they stopped at.
Analicia “Here is the opening offer. Less then some. more then most.”
Easter looked over the contract and laughed.
Easter “You can't be serious Ana I know you like Ramen but this kind of a midife crisis is supposed to get you to buy a rv or a sorts car not a wresting federation.”
Analicia “Says the woman who has kept up and kept herself in fighting form at a wrestling school. A place to not only stay capable and in the race but to stay in the kinda form that could get her back no matter what number that age assigned her, or what the current landscape looked like. Hell I'm almost jealous at how good you look seeing where about you where when we started. Hyou even wear the hint of grey with pride“
Easter again looked over the number and shook her head.
Easter “Do you have any idea what this kinda money being thrown around looks like? What it takes to actually turn a profit or keep a company afloat even for a year?”
Analicia “It means you have always undersold yourself. That your still looknig for excuses and ways of doing anything but what you want to do most. I mean it Julia with Invicta our past, our friendship, means nothing its all about the show, the product, and the competition. We can put right and do right what was done wrong before. Oh and believe me mine isn't the only money tied into this. Just in what Invicta represents we have more then a few investors and other deep pockets and friends willing and wanting to see this happen. People who threw in a good deal more once they found out we were in negotiation with the likes of Drake Connors, and Julia Easter. Your name still excites, still reaches, and has weight.”
Easter drew a line under one of the numbers before making a few more notes.
Easter “First off this gets spit three ways. First in half with half of it going back to the Hawks Nest. “
Analicia “Julia “
Easter waved her off and continued the break down.
Easter “You want me? You believe in me that much then theres only one way this is gonna work. No I'm not asking you to endorse or promote the wrestling school I'll do all I need do for it by sending the lion share of the profit from this back. I'll represent it myself by setting foot in your ring. As for the other half we split that too. Half of it going back into Invicta. “
Analicia “Really?”
Easter “Yes really. You tell me I should look at myself and about how much I want to get back in the ring...well I want it more then maybe even I know. But I gotta do right by that desire and by the heart and fight I can see you have for it. You believe in me enough to want me to be apart of this... then I want it on paper how much I believe in what your trying to do here.”
Ana smirked
Analicia “With the added bonus that you aren't seen as doing this for the paycheck... clever girl.... But you owe that adorable assistant of yours a raise.”
Analicia pulled the contract with the doddles around the numbers off the car hood and pulled out a few others.
Analicia “She drew up several varients of the contract including one with that very break down. “
Setting a new copy of the contract on the hood of the car Easter just rolled her eyes and took the offered pen.
Easter “Gonna be weird seeing you as my boss. But not as strange as some of the fan fiction about the two of us. Though it does mean we can't settle arguments the way we used to. “
Handing the contract over Ana handed Julia a few more bits of paper as well as an Invicta t shirt. Yea don't ask how she was hiding all that in a suit jacket. .
Analicia “Welcome to Invicta. Glad to have you on board. Theres a small press junket on the day of the debut card release you might wanna be at. But try and be nice or atleast don't go diving into the press pit to give them what they I'm sure they will deserve. I have already also freed up some time for a house show promo just so you can furher stretch your legs a little first.”
The two shook hands before embracing in a hug.
Analicia “You have no idea how glad I am you said yes. How good it will be even for the fan girl in me to see Julia Easter in action again.”
The vultures circle
The card had come out and hers was a triple threat match agianst one oponent whose nsme she wasn't even gonna try for even with the hints of Manderan and Cantanesase she had picked up, and Austin Reynolds. A rather young looking kid with a pretty punchable face and smug look that could almost give Connors a run for his money. Standing beside Analicia and a broad swath of the Invicta roster she almost had to suppresss a smirk at how this could look like a Hawks Nest graduation photo,. Or a where are they now benefit. She cast more then a few amused and antagonistic glances up and down the line just to try to get a reaction but was a little let down by how professional everyone was being in the face of the feeding frenzy, and then it started.
“Julia Easter don't you think at forty six years old your a little too old to still be wrestling?”
Easter “kinna odd a thing ta ask with a six foot gap and a handful a security between us hot shot. But maybe you could stop watching the WWE and broaden your horizons a little.Didn't The Rock And Roll Express just win gold somewhere. Invicta came looking for me so it seems they don't seem to think so and who am I to argue? Its a heck of a compliment to almost be more wanted at forty six then I was at half that.”
“Miss easter it has been almost a consul generation or two, several ...nearly a half dozen promotions have risen up? Don't you think wrestling has changed too much for someone from your time to adjust too?”
Easter “Since the end goal is to either knock down for a three count, or tap out an opponent wrestling hasn't changed in longer then I have been around. Sure some companies are regressing and pandering, some are moving forward in storytelling while others are slipping. Wrestling is still wrestling and will never change so much that there isn't an audience for all. “
“With the array of talent on the stage with you do you still feel you have something to prove some thing to Contribute?”
Easter “I wouldn't be here if I didn't and wouldn't be here if Invicta didn't. As a wise woman once said the day a wrestler doesn't feel they have something to prove, isn't trying for a higher spot, or fighting to defend they'res they would be better off hanging up they're boots and standing aside. But what could I have to prove. .. That this old bitch ain't so long in the tooth that she can't still draw blood.”
“Excuse me miss Easter but the term bitch is a dirogatory one and has no...”
Easter “Honey do us all a favor and keep your horseshit pc out of our escapism and entertainment. Even trying to finish that statement means you dont know a lick about wrestling. Far as I am concerned being called a bitch or being said to rassle like one is the highest form a praise a gal can get next to being said to work like one of the guys. In fact Id ruther be called a bitch then alota things and when it comes from someone like a Triple H then you know its something to be proud of. In fact I hope some of the girls up here, end up earning such high praise … hope I can give it to em.”
“Which begs the question are you here in some kinda enhancement role or as a way to give credability to and help push the new era of wrestler?”
Easter “Hell no any of these kids get one over me is gonna have to earn it is gonna have to prove wortyh of it, is gonna have to earn there boots, and aren't gonna do it without having a few bruises to prove it. If thats all Invicta wanted they could have looked anywhere for that kinda talent could have even plucked it from the bunch a you micstands since more then a few of you have been writing where are they now and obits even when I was working in plaes like The Empire and WWCF. “
“Then this for you is a labor of love, seeing as how leaked details about your contract prove it isn't about the money?”
Easter “Thats part of it I have in my long and storied career almost never said no to Analicia and clealry wasn't about to start now. Love what I have given my life to, and am ready to continue to give it.”
“Speaking of that same leak isn't part of this to pormote and endorse the wrestling school you and Angel Garza launched in Colorado?“
Easter “No and the hawks nest isn't in any state where it would need me to turn most of what I have made over to it. But that is how much I believe in what we do there, and in what I am doing her, in what Invicta wants to do. There is no promotion just representation.”
“Could your signing with Invicta be some kind of way to compete with companies staring other rivals, , former students, or even your niece?”
Easter “No because Invicta, to my understanding isnt openly competing with anyone but focusing on its show its people, and its product. Is wanting the fans to decide where they want to spend they're time and money. Lets not forget where focusing on the competition and the wars gets you? Missing what makes things work while trying to do them yourself, or what is known as WCW. I am, and continue to be proud of the accomplishments of all my old rivals from Val Valour to Analicia, and the work of my niece who I'm sure is killing it. But I am in this as much for me as I am for invicta. “
“And what is it that you are here for miss Easter?”
Easter “Maybe to piss off a lot of you by proving that I'm still alive and well and able to compete, maybe to carry on the tradition of earning the respect of another company and winning gold from it as I have almost anywhere I have gone. Even maybe take one of those things that has eluded me a little too long the World title.”
“What do you see when you look at those with you on the stage?”
Easter “folks that were only inches away from being spunk on a sock while I was lacing up my first pair of boots, kids that were maybe old enough to be felt up or learned what that meant when I wore my first title belt. A promising mix and match of folks that might actually be able to earn they're boots before I end up in a pine box. A weird larp group featuring everything from a Candy land cosplayer and a couple girl scouts to a time lord in the form of Drake Conners who despite breaking in riding Chris Simmons coat tails and chasing Kylie Daley Dantes skirt somehow looks younger then most of us. To some Johnny Cage by way of Kratos looking Steven Segal style action hero playing wrestler, aond of course the restlessness and passion of Analicia that has somehow brought us all together.... The kind of motley mix that proves that the rock and wrestling, cartoon, attitude eras never died. A group I look forward to facing off against, and some I expect to see... all sarcasm aside I look forward to putting on great matches with or in spite of. “
“Speaking of that match”
Easter “About bloody time. A three way tween myself, an international superstar and one of the most punchable faces not named Vince or Shane I have ever seen. The kinda physically draing and demanding a match that either proves that Ana is giving you what you want and thats me put out to pasture or one that she has proven faith in my ability to make a match like this everything it can be, everything it should be which given where it is the thing people will be talking about when its all over. How the oldest dog in the yard ran it an proved she could run with a bunch a puppies and kittens. Hell the only thing that could make this better was if there was a title on the line but rest assured that will come soon enough. I know enough about the masked man that I need to know he has Drakes seal of approval so he is gonna be one hell of a fight and maybe the best way to shake off any ring rust and give you all the high flying and death defying you could want while... well I don't know anything about Reynolds and look forward to seeing him teach me what he is all about. Before I have to take him over my knee and spank him like the bad boy he looks like, though he looks like he also might enjoy that a little too much. Any and all questions about Juli Easter from age to era wil be settled when the dust does and they end up eating hers when she has her hand raised in victory.....”
the press conference continued on down the line of superstars witha few more glances and barbs being traded and the show royaly hyped.
The day to day administrative work was the part that was more draining and soul crushing then anything which is why she usually saved it for the odd hours of the am. Scanning over student reviews, expenses, maintinance request, and more then a few scam attempts, and publicity offers that read almost like extortion. Easter leaned back and rubbed at her eyes before turning her attention to a wall of monitors. Some of the monitors showcasing earlier work from the students, a few showcasing older pay per views dating back to the days of Selphie, the nighthawks in the CWR, and the last days of The Empire. As she prepared to return to the stack of papers in front of her Easter let out an exhausted sigh when the phone rang. She raised an eyebrow knowing the hour and how few people would have the direct line as the schools main number would have set off a lap top notifacation before reaching the phone.
Easter “Hello Julia Easter. ….. Ana? ….. Bloody hell girl its been a lifetime. The hell you up to, and at this hour. … yeah time zones are still a thing..... Invicta? Ana … its like three a.m. a little too early for Latin.... klingon or whatever..... look it up she says. “
Analicia Morales had been one of her longest running frenimies in the wrestling buiness one she had not recalled hearing from since some time during the final days of her last run with the WWCF. As she entered in the site Analicia suggested Julia rolled her eyes.
Easter “Ok what comic con did they abduct this roster from I am wearing shoes that probably have more experience then these kids..... the staff?”
Going to the page requested she almost dropped the phone and slammed her leg in shock.
Easter “Are you out of your mind? …. Nevermnd I can see the evidence … You have children now remember your supposed to be trying to be retired, focused on the little ones. ….. Come see the operation? Your serious ? Analicia be serious we were already a lil too old ta be doing this around Freedom x. …. You'd be surprised how content one can be working with students and succedding vicariously through them.... Only because its you but I make no promises. “
Hanging up she swiftly worked to make travel araingements switching between laptop to cellphone as she started to call her assistant.
Easter “Emily. I didn't wake you did I?.... Right I forgot Angel hired you but stlll... family emergency just came. …. She called you first? …... I can be hard headed? …. This is insane.. Just need you to do the paralegal and admin for a few days and make sure Chainz and Kit can focus on the students.. Thank you.”
Hanging up she bagged up the laptop and headed out only to stop at a small candle and shrine at the stand beside the office door. Wetting two fingers she put out the candle she always lit in memory of Angel. The Hawks Nest had been Angel Garzas dream and her way of carrying on as she couldn't have children or more so wouldn't so as to avoid passing on an geneticdefect. After Angel passed the schools control fell to her and Chainz Macarther, who was waiting just outside at reception. He had been the man who had broken her into the business. Seeing him rise assisted by a cane which was mostly for show especially once you got him around aspiring students or a corner booth of bar maids. arm raised offering up a gym bag. She chuckled and waved it off
Easter “So she called you too, I ain't signing up for anything Chainz that ship sailed, forgot its keys, went back and sailed again. Hell I turned down more then one offer just this week. This is about making sure Anas restlessness hasn't put her children in danger.”
Chainz “if thats what you gotta tell yourself darlin. .. but your a wrestler an you have been looking for ways to scratch that itch agian fur the longest time an we both know it … Sides how often have you ever said no to your friends especially that one.”
Easter took the bag and added it to the laptop bag weighting down her right shoulder.
Easter “Not often enough. I imagine my career might have lasted longer and been a little more successful if I had.”
Chainz “but not as fun an you know it. Sides it aint over jus spaced out and successful has manhy a margin and marker in many different eyes. “
Still an oak and a fountain of wisdom. Part of her wanted to stay and discuss this new, ….. whatever this was with him more. But as she thought about it and knew somewhere he and Emily clearly seem to know her better, know what was best for her better then shed did or at least more then she was willing to admit she recalled much of they're younger days.
Easter “ I know its a weird question especially seeing how many of them grey hairs I probably gave you. But why did you care so much to take in a lil feral man hater like me after already losing your daughter and a wife to wrestling?”
Chainz “Cause if Elie was so willing to follow in her fathers footsteps she'd go behind my back to get the schoolin and find herself a place that would hire her I'd a done her memory a dis service walking away. Liz was too much a lady and maybe a lil too much a mother ta git that. Sides you an Ellie woulda hit it off right proper an been quite the force ta be reckoned with . Sure you were a man hating feral. But there was somethin in you that reminded me so much a her it'd a been wrong not ta teach you how to turn that fire into a wrestler, and I never once regretted it. I have been, an always will be proud a you Julia Christine Easter.”
Easter “Even after how the press dogged you though? I mean good lord they accused you of everything from trying to replace Ellie to having an affair with me.”
Chainz “Press is press. They wanted a story, they only saw how it looked so they filled in the blanks with what would git the most attention truth beside the fact. “
Something else she wasn't looking forward to. The wrestling press she could already piece together where they're questions would go and how much of it would go at her for her age, time away, and the dubiousness of Anas looking to sign her in the first place. Lost a little in already rearing some push back, already feeling like a momet in a Cinema Sins video.. ”character profoundly professes how they aren't going to do something we all know they will clichee.” Only to be grounded and brought back to the momemt by a friendly embrace by the old man.
Chainz “ And don't you worry none we'll keep the lights on, the door open and the building standing while you go an do what you do best.”
She almost wanted to deny that she was in, that she was even thinking of returning to the mainstream wrestling scene and a full time schedule. But could feel the itch, could hear some part of her letting out a primal scream at even the tease of release that would come with getting back out there.
Easter “No promises, and I called Emily she'll handle the funds, the paper work, and the administrative so that you can stick to the students.. Try a little to get along. I still recall how many arguments tween you two Angel had to break up.”
The old man chuckled and set a hand on her shoulder.
Chainz “Was always in good fun gal reminds me a lil too much a Angels ice queen that I just worked to find her wild side. But anything that keeps me away from law dogs and accountants will be a good thing even Em.”
Taking him in one last hug she could feel a tear fall, a happy tear she had to imagine as she then headed out of the door.
Making it official
Several days later walking out of the grand ball room beside Analicia she couldn't help but notice that Ana almost seem to have drake Connors gift for never aging and in keeping in fighters trim, an even more amazing fact after having several children. As they made they're way out to the parking lot Analicia broke the almost awkward silence.
Analicia “So what do you think?”
Easter “Hell of a set up covering everything from merch, to promo and interview setups, and social media training. The production value is on point. Looks like you actually almost thought this through.”
Analicia “ almost?”
Easter “Hiring Drake? Reaching out to those around me to try and talk me back into the ring? ... Ana you have to know how that looks.”
Analicia “Like I want the best in what is a golden age of wrestling especially if you can provide an alternative to Conneticet. “
Easter “And you don't think we are getting a ittle old for this. I mean you and Drake know better then even me what the backstage mess was, the politics, the horse shit, the mess of creative and promotor meddling manipultion and...”
Analicia “Something we learned more thena few lessons from, lessons in how to do it right. Make it all about the show, all about the competition, forget the friendships and the connection and make it about the product. “
Easter “An alternative while you are bringing in old names like myself and Connors?”
Analicia “Aren't you the one that said that this is a young roster whats wrong with making sure to add some more experienced talent. Healthy mix of styles, eras as well as making the whole thing a learning experience for all involved.”
Easter “Could also look like a grab for nostalgia or maybe high end enhancement talent to put the new kids on the block over.”
Analicia “If that's all I wanted I wouldn't have wasted your time. I'd have called other people would have looked over the releases of those other companies. I called, I went out of my way to get a hold of you cause I wanted you. Want Julia Easter. Come on Jules you didn't come all the way out here to tell me no to my face out of respect. I saw you eyes as we went down to the ring watched you come up with ideas for insane dives and stunts that would stick a middle finger to all those sharpening theyre knives or prepaing theyre shovels to try and knock you into a career grave yard. “
She stepped from the side to come face to face with Easter.
Analicia “Look me in the eye and tell me your too old for this shit. That some part of you doesn't want this, wasn't just turning down all those other offers for the right thing, the real thing to come along. A fresh start on the ground floor of something great. Convince me its enough for you to succeed through your students, through the triumphs of your niece. If you can do that we part here and now as friends.”
Analicia seeing the look on her old friends face, a silently contemplative one pulled a small packet of papers form the inside pocket of her suit jacket and opened them onto the hood of the rental they stopped at.
Analicia “Here is the opening offer. Less then some. more then most.”
Easter looked over the contract and laughed.
Easter “You can't be serious Ana I know you like Ramen but this kind of a midife crisis is supposed to get you to buy a rv or a sorts car not a wresting federation.”
Analicia “Says the woman who has kept up and kept herself in fighting form at a wrestling school. A place to not only stay capable and in the race but to stay in the kinda form that could get her back no matter what number that age assigned her, or what the current landscape looked like. Hell I'm almost jealous at how good you look seeing where about you where when we started. Hyou even wear the hint of grey with pride“
Easter again looked over the number and shook her head.
Easter “Do you have any idea what this kinda money being thrown around looks like? What it takes to actually turn a profit or keep a company afloat even for a year?”
Analicia “It means you have always undersold yourself. That your still looknig for excuses and ways of doing anything but what you want to do most. I mean it Julia with Invicta our past, our friendship, means nothing its all about the show, the product, and the competition. We can put right and do right what was done wrong before. Oh and believe me mine isn't the only money tied into this. Just in what Invicta represents we have more then a few investors and other deep pockets and friends willing and wanting to see this happen. People who threw in a good deal more once they found out we were in negotiation with the likes of Drake Connors, and Julia Easter. Your name still excites, still reaches, and has weight.”
Easter drew a line under one of the numbers before making a few more notes.
Easter “First off this gets spit three ways. First in half with half of it going back to the Hawks Nest. “
Analicia “Julia “
Easter waved her off and continued the break down.
Easter “You want me? You believe in me that much then theres only one way this is gonna work. No I'm not asking you to endorse or promote the wrestling school I'll do all I need do for it by sending the lion share of the profit from this back. I'll represent it myself by setting foot in your ring. As for the other half we split that too. Half of it going back into Invicta. “
Analicia “Really?”
Easter “Yes really. You tell me I should look at myself and about how much I want to get back in the ring...well I want it more then maybe even I know. But I gotta do right by that desire and by the heart and fight I can see you have for it. You believe in me enough to want me to be apart of this... then I want it on paper how much I believe in what your trying to do here.”
Ana smirked
Analicia “With the added bonus that you aren't seen as doing this for the paycheck... clever girl.... But you owe that adorable assistant of yours a raise.”
Analicia pulled the contract with the doddles around the numbers off the car hood and pulled out a few others.
Analicia “She drew up several varients of the contract including one with that very break down. “
Setting a new copy of the contract on the hood of the car Easter just rolled her eyes and took the offered pen.
Easter “Gonna be weird seeing you as my boss. But not as strange as some of the fan fiction about the two of us. Though it does mean we can't settle arguments the way we used to. “
Handing the contract over Ana handed Julia a few more bits of paper as well as an Invicta t shirt. Yea don't ask how she was hiding all that in a suit jacket. .
Analicia “Welcome to Invicta. Glad to have you on board. Theres a small press junket on the day of the debut card release you might wanna be at. But try and be nice or atleast don't go diving into the press pit to give them what they I'm sure they will deserve. I have already also freed up some time for a house show promo just so you can furher stretch your legs a little first.”
The two shook hands before embracing in a hug.
Analicia “You have no idea how glad I am you said yes. How good it will be even for the fan girl in me to see Julia Easter in action again.”
The vultures circle
The card had come out and hers was a triple threat match agianst one oponent whose nsme she wasn't even gonna try for even with the hints of Manderan and Cantanesase she had picked up, and Austin Reynolds. A rather young looking kid with a pretty punchable face and smug look that could almost give Connors a run for his money. Standing beside Analicia and a broad swath of the Invicta roster she almost had to suppresss a smirk at how this could look like a Hawks Nest graduation photo,. Or a where are they now benefit. She cast more then a few amused and antagonistic glances up and down the line just to try to get a reaction but was a little let down by how professional everyone was being in the face of the feeding frenzy, and then it started.
“Julia Easter don't you think at forty six years old your a little too old to still be wrestling?”
Easter “kinna odd a thing ta ask with a six foot gap and a handful a security between us hot shot. But maybe you could stop watching the WWE and broaden your horizons a little.Didn't The Rock And Roll Express just win gold somewhere. Invicta came looking for me so it seems they don't seem to think so and who am I to argue? Its a heck of a compliment to almost be more wanted at forty six then I was at half that.”
“Miss easter it has been almost a consul generation or two, several ...nearly a half dozen promotions have risen up? Don't you think wrestling has changed too much for someone from your time to adjust too?”
Easter “Since the end goal is to either knock down for a three count, or tap out an opponent wrestling hasn't changed in longer then I have been around. Sure some companies are regressing and pandering, some are moving forward in storytelling while others are slipping. Wrestling is still wrestling and will never change so much that there isn't an audience for all. “
“With the array of talent on the stage with you do you still feel you have something to prove some thing to Contribute?”
Easter “I wouldn't be here if I didn't and wouldn't be here if Invicta didn't. As a wise woman once said the day a wrestler doesn't feel they have something to prove, isn't trying for a higher spot, or fighting to defend they'res they would be better off hanging up they're boots and standing aside. But what could I have to prove. .. That this old bitch ain't so long in the tooth that she can't still draw blood.”
“Excuse me miss Easter but the term bitch is a dirogatory one and has no...”
Easter “Honey do us all a favor and keep your horseshit pc out of our escapism and entertainment. Even trying to finish that statement means you dont know a lick about wrestling. Far as I am concerned being called a bitch or being said to rassle like one is the highest form a praise a gal can get next to being said to work like one of the guys. In fact Id ruther be called a bitch then alota things and when it comes from someone like a Triple H then you know its something to be proud of. In fact I hope some of the girls up here, end up earning such high praise … hope I can give it to em.”
“Which begs the question are you here in some kinda enhancement role or as a way to give credability to and help push the new era of wrestler?”
Easter “Hell no any of these kids get one over me is gonna have to earn it is gonna have to prove wortyh of it, is gonna have to earn there boots, and aren't gonna do it without having a few bruises to prove it. If thats all Invicta wanted they could have looked anywhere for that kinda talent could have even plucked it from the bunch a you micstands since more then a few of you have been writing where are they now and obits even when I was working in plaes like The Empire and WWCF. “
“Then this for you is a labor of love, seeing as how leaked details about your contract prove it isn't about the money?”
Easter “Thats part of it I have in my long and storied career almost never said no to Analicia and clealry wasn't about to start now. Love what I have given my life to, and am ready to continue to give it.”
“Speaking of that same leak isn't part of this to pormote and endorse the wrestling school you and Angel Garza launched in Colorado?“
Easter “No and the hawks nest isn't in any state where it would need me to turn most of what I have made over to it. But that is how much I believe in what we do there, and in what I am doing her, in what Invicta wants to do. There is no promotion just representation.”
“Could your signing with Invicta be some kind of way to compete with companies staring other rivals, , former students, or even your niece?”
Easter “No because Invicta, to my understanding isnt openly competing with anyone but focusing on its show its people, and its product. Is wanting the fans to decide where they want to spend they're time and money. Lets not forget where focusing on the competition and the wars gets you? Missing what makes things work while trying to do them yourself, or what is known as WCW. I am, and continue to be proud of the accomplishments of all my old rivals from Val Valour to Analicia, and the work of my niece who I'm sure is killing it. But I am in this as much for me as I am for invicta. “
“And what is it that you are here for miss Easter?”
Easter “Maybe to piss off a lot of you by proving that I'm still alive and well and able to compete, maybe to carry on the tradition of earning the respect of another company and winning gold from it as I have almost anywhere I have gone. Even maybe take one of those things that has eluded me a little too long the World title.”
“What do you see when you look at those with you on the stage?”
Easter “folks that were only inches away from being spunk on a sock while I was lacing up my first pair of boots, kids that were maybe old enough to be felt up or learned what that meant when I wore my first title belt. A promising mix and match of folks that might actually be able to earn they're boots before I end up in a pine box. A weird larp group featuring everything from a Candy land cosplayer and a couple girl scouts to a time lord in the form of Drake Conners who despite breaking in riding Chris Simmons coat tails and chasing Kylie Daley Dantes skirt somehow looks younger then most of us. To some Johnny Cage by way of Kratos looking Steven Segal style action hero playing wrestler, aond of course the restlessness and passion of Analicia that has somehow brought us all together.... The kind of motley mix that proves that the rock and wrestling, cartoon, attitude eras never died. A group I look forward to facing off against, and some I expect to see... all sarcasm aside I look forward to putting on great matches with or in spite of. “
“Speaking of that match”
Easter “About bloody time. A three way tween myself, an international superstar and one of the most punchable faces not named Vince or Shane I have ever seen. The kinda physically draing and demanding a match that either proves that Ana is giving you what you want and thats me put out to pasture or one that she has proven faith in my ability to make a match like this everything it can be, everything it should be which given where it is the thing people will be talking about when its all over. How the oldest dog in the yard ran it an proved she could run with a bunch a puppies and kittens. Hell the only thing that could make this better was if there was a title on the line but rest assured that will come soon enough. I know enough about the masked man that I need to know he has Drakes seal of approval so he is gonna be one hell of a fight and maybe the best way to shake off any ring rust and give you all the high flying and death defying you could want while... well I don't know anything about Reynolds and look forward to seeing him teach me what he is all about. Before I have to take him over my knee and spank him like the bad boy he looks like, though he looks like he also might enjoy that a little too much. Any and all questions about Juli Easter from age to era wil be settled when the dust does and they end up eating hers when she has her hand raised in victory.....”
the press conference continued on down the line of superstars witha few more glances and barbs being traded and the show royaly hyped.