No one's team.

08.09.21 Osaka, Japan

*Due to the tournament, which was to be held next Saturday, it was the last evening that the young Japanese man would spend at home. While the youngest child was sleeping in the next room, the other two were sitting with him in the living room. While in front of the camera he might seem quite a harsh person, the company of these two creatures made his heart melt. Even if he didn't seem like someone who likes children, he loved to play with them. Arata loved how happy they were when he was at home, because he traveled a lot and they couldn't always go with him. Therefore, when the Japanese man had the opportunity to spend some time with them, he ignored a bit the principle of sleeping on time. Despite the fact that it was already dark outside and without proper lighting it was impossible to see anything in the living room, it was not late enough for Arata to not be able to answer a Skype call. Unless he was a man who went to bed early, he was not used to gossiping on the phone at night.*

*Hearing the characteristic sound, the man took the phone from the pocket of his gray sweatpants. Seeing who his potential interlocutor was, he put the phone aside, then went to the bedroom. He brought his laptop, which he placed on the glass table in front of the place where he had been sitting earlier. His daughter immediately jumped on the couch and began pulling a sleeve of his white T-shirt, trying to get his attention. When Arata looked at her, after he started the call, the girl uttered the question in a cute little tone of voice.

"Who is that, dad?"

*Rin didn't have to wait long for an answer, when a familiar face appeared on the screen. It was Arata's older brother, Naoki, and the kids' uncle. Rin rejoiced and waved at him with such an energy that Arata had to catch her to keep her from falling off the couch.*

"Aren't you going to say 'hi', Izaya?"

*The blonde man looked at the two-year-old who was playing with something on the carpet. The child was so engrossed in what he was doing that he didn't even notice. Arata only waved his hand and concentrated again on his interlocutor, who was the first to begin the conversation.*

"Hi, little brother. I thought you were already in Saitama, what a nice surprise." After those words, he smiled at Rin "Hello little one, shouldn't you sleep at this time?"

"No!"

*Arata pulled her towards him and sat her down on the couch next to him.*

"Let's say, they can stay a little longer, because I'm leaving tomorrow. This time it will be a little longer 'trip'. First the Collision Course, then the Night of Honor. A lot of shit happening."

"I know, that's why I called. Maybe, we'll come to Tokyo, but it depends if I can take a day off from work. Anyway, how do you feel about all of this?"

*Arata just shrugged his shoulders, then rubbed his face with his hand. Finally, in a slightly tired voice, he responded to his older brother.*

"As far as the tournament is concerned, Hana has already tormented me about it. So please don't talk about this. But when it comes to the Night of Honor, I don't know what to think. To be honest, I feel disappointed. Even if it's the Main Event, half of these people don't deserve such a high spot. The fact that someone thought that me and they should be considered to be kind of equal, disgusts me. To put it mildly. Besides, I don't like that this is going to be some kind of battle of two brands. Fallout vs Proving Ground! Which roster is better?! And blah, blah, blah. I don't care about any wars between Indy Darling and DeMarco. I am not here to be someone's "team". A team that is not even on a good level. Decent I would say. Still better than our competitions, but I wouldn't be so excited about that. Maybe that Mark Hunter is not that bad, but the rest is some kind of unfunny joke. All I can say is that, Indy Darling is lucky, that I am a professional, and most of all, that he promised me some reward. If not for the aforementioned title shot, I doubt that I would have any reason for cooperating with this bunch of clowns. As I said before. I don't care about Proving Ground or Fallout. I'm only interested in my own business. So I hope no one will give some pseudo-motivational speeches before this match. I don't need any unification attempts. Honestly, it would be better for me if they didn't even speak to me. I will win this match, with them or not.”

*Naoki laughed at that kind of reply. After that he added a few words from himself.*

"You've never liked to rely on others. Perhaps that is a good thing. If you can take care of yourself when you are alone, it's even easier when you have people around you, aiming for the same goal. Even if you don't care about the rest of your Proving Ground team, they also want to win this match. Each of them will fight with all their heart to make the next step in their career. I'm not saying that you should consider them as friends, but at least take advantage of them. Take advantage of the fact that the other four people want to get their chance. Even if some have already had such an opportunity, and others are just making their name here, each of them is hungry for success. Just like you."

*Arata frowned, as if he felt slightly offended. However, the silence did not last long, because the blonde man commented on what he just heard.*

"In my case, it is not just about winning one match or an opportunity. In my case, the main goal is to change the point of view of the world. My goal is noble, while the other four fight only for their own benefit. Never again compare us even to a small extent. I am not an egoist. I am a fighter who strives for a better future for people like us, Naoki. It is because of the ignorance of people like those in my team or my opponents, that I have to wage this war absolutely everywhere to get at least part of what I...we deserve. Therefore, as long as I can use them, I don't have to. I don't want to do it. I already told you that I don't need them. What I need is this bullshit to end, so that I can focus on my own plans. And if any of them are going to ruin it for me, I will kill every single one of them."

*The two brothers talked for a few more minutes, then Arata closed the computer. Bored with his toy, Izaya, also climbed onto the couch and sat down next to Rin and Arata. *

"Uncle worries unnecessarily. I'm sure you will do just fine. You always succeed in everything."

*The girl said it with great confidence, wanting to cheer her father up. However, she was not alone in her intention, the boy added something as well.*

"Dad is a hero and heroes always win. He will defeat the bad group and we'll celebrate!"

*Izaya sent him a wide smile.*

*Maybe these children lived with the impression that there was nothing to stop their father. However, such an idealized silly vision was cute in its own way and was the perfect support for what was to come.*

10.09.21 Saitama, Japan

*The next evening, the Japanese man was already in another city, as the tournament, to which they signed up with Havoc, was to begin soon. However, this was not the only thought Arata had in the back of his head, as his next match in the Main Event of Night of Honor would actually take place the day after Collision Course. Was he happy about it? He was not. While the position that gave him the center of attention was worthy of himself, the circumstances did not entirely fill him with optimism. It actually made him feel that once again Indy Darling had shown him such disrespect. In some way, it even tormented him, and a head full of thoughts and regret is not the best companion in a fight. Therefore, Arata has decided to let go of everything that he feels about all of this. Mainly, so that the next evening he could enter the ring with a clear mind during the Collision Course. Therefore, while in his hotel room, the man set up a camera to make a recording for Project Honor Universe.*

*As the recording begins, the shot opens with a view of one of the Proving Ground' roster members. Arata, dressed in a black shirt with sleeves rolled up to the elbows, black suit pants and leather shoes, is leaning with his back against a large glass window. The material of his shirt is pulled high enough, that even from this distance one could clearly see the symbol of the blessing engraved on his forearm. Even if many believed that this was a tattoo, it was the truest symbol of his relationship with the Japanese god.*

*At the very beginning, Arata does not even look at the camera, but somewhere to the side. Eventually he shifts his gaze into the direction of the lens. His eyes are in the usual brown shades and his face exudes calmness. At least until he starts talking. Arata's voice is ice cold and his expression seems to be more harsh.*

For the last few weeks, I have been trying to show that it is worth investing in me. All this time, I was doing my best to make Indy Darling finally open his eyes and find out that there is no one better at Proving Ground than me. However, he is still blind to the truth that attacks him from all sides. What is more, with each passing day, he disrespects me more and more, pretending at the same time that he sees nothing wrong with his pathetic behavior. And after all of this bullshit, he even goes far enough to make a shameful move that is like a spit in my face. Namely, not only does he put me in a match full of gaijins once again, he also turns it into a war of brands. While I don't care about Proving Ground in the least. I don't care about his drama with DeMarco. I am not here to be the tool in their stupid argument. I guess, we all agree that these two should resolve the situation with each other, but instead they use their subordinates like cowards. Exactly. There is no better word to describe it. Funnily enough, they think, they can hide it by putting it in the Main Event of their biggest show. While we all know most of this squad shouldn't be there. In fact, only me and Mark Hunter are worthy of what the Main Event is. All the rest, both from the blue and green brands, are mediocrity, for which participation is the reward itself. However, my expectations are a bit higher. I don't know what Mark is going to do with it, but I want to get something out of having to struggle with the incompetence of these gaijins one more time. Something I wanted from the beginning and, of course, it's a title shot. Something that theoretically Indy Darling promised me, but I've learned that you can never be sure if someone will keep their word. It would be better for him if he did, because my patience found its finish line already. Honestly speaking, we are at the moment when I start to be thirsty for blood and every little irritation makes me very close to changing this company into one big puddle of blood. So if Indy Darling dares to lie to me, it will be only his fault. However, I don't think it would bother him, seeing how much he wants to be the center of attention.

*Arata laughs sarcastically and shakes his head disapprovingly.*

Did you really have to call it 'Team Indy Darling'? Not even Team Proving Ground? Holy fuck. What an egomaniac you must be to make everything about yourself. But you know what? I don't give a shit if you're a general manager or not, I want you to understand one thing. I am no one's team. I am my own man. And whatever I want to win this ridiculous battle of yours, depends only on whether it will be profitable for me. So if you did something right, you promised me something in return. At least you have given me a little reason not to leave the rest of your 'chosen ones' alone. You gave me a purpose to want to destroy those clowns that DeMarco is betting on.

*After these words the man sighs heavily and puts his hands in the pockets of his black trousers. After a while, he continues his speech. As the next words are leaving his mouth, everyone can notice more and more dissatisfaction in his voice.*

However, none of you are watching this to hear how much grudge I have for Indy Darling. Most of you are probably interested in what I have to say about the five people that will be in the ring in front of me in a few days. To be honest, they are part of my frustration. Mainly, because it's not the competition that I want, as they are not on my level. As everyone knows, I am an ambitious man, and defeating the mediocre is not enough for me. I need a higher-class opponent to feel at least a little bit of emotion in the upcoming match. I need adrenaline running through my veins. Whilst looking at what Fallout has to offer, I feel bored. I am easily overwhelmed by a complete lack of emotions and interest. Thinking about this thing itself, I feel just as plain as the competition in front of me. As I said during the Collision Course. I hate the lack of creativity. I feel like puke, when I hear that each member of the roster is just a guy in pants, who wants to be called a wrestler. And these five people, that DeMarco chose is not only bland as fuck, but also literally the same, creating one huge boredom and disappointment.

*A momentary smirk appears on Arata's face, which quickly fades away. Moments later, the man bites his lower lip for a few seconds, until he talks again.*

But let's say, I will give them a little attention. I will give them what these background characters need so much. So let me start with someone with whom I may have the opportunity to meet before the Night of Honor. Namely, Lazarus Arjen. One of the many rebels the industry has seen. Another deathmatch wrestler, who constantly wants to fight. Zero ambitions, goals or expectations. Just the will to be between the ropes, which will be self-destructive for him. Perhaps, it seems to him that everything is fine now, but in some time he will be engulfed in this endless cycle, as if he was in a black hole. After all, how long can you enter the ring without thinking about what will happen next? How long can you move between the ropes and be as mindless as a zombie? What satisfaction can be felt in this way? None. It's just a daily activity like brushing your teeth, which does not change anything in your life, while a person must constantly develop. To do this, he has to have goals, he has to use a little bit of his brain. However, after what I have seen in this industry, there are also those who depend only on bloodshed. For various reasons. Some people enjoy it, while others heal their complexes and lack of competence as a wrestler or human. At this point, I don't know yet which of these people is Lazarus Arjen, but I have the impression that both of them. Which makes it even sadder. There is nothing worse than a personalityless brute who thinks such behavior is enough to make a difference in the industry. Well, it's time to break the bubble that this clown lives in. The truth is, Lazarus Arjen is not a name that will be remembered by the wrestling world. This is just one of many names that will disappear as soon as it appears.

The same can be said for his tag team partner, Charon Seede. Although, he is a man whom I have met before with a little difference. He had another ring name at the time, but this is not what I want to talk about. What I wanted you to understand is, that I don't even put him in the same category as Lazarus. Arjen might still have a slight element of surprise. But Charon? I already stood in the ring with him. I know him like my own pocket, and maybe even better. Listen, I'm not saying we have any big and long history. I'd rather call it a single episode, when this idiot tried to challenge for the championship I had at the time. The result of this match is probably obvious, at least to those who follow my career, but let me tell you exactly what happened. Namely, we had a pretty decent match. Charon tried to do something to beat me, but once again he showed that the only thing he is good at is a big talk. However, these were just empty words that were never confirmed. That is why, unlike him, I don't think he is the strongest link from Fallout. Perhaps, even one of the weakest. Now, you can call me an ignorant person, who underestimates his opponents. I've heard it many times, but before you open your mouth, remember what I said. I know Charon Seede. I know what this guy is capable of and what I can tell you is that, this fixated on being an anti-god gaijin, can't do anything to put me down. He can only watch me triumph over him again. Not only that time at Night of Honor, but also he and Lazarus will have to come to terms with defeat in the tournament.

*The young Japanese man pauses for a moment, then takes out one of his hands from his pocket and runs his fingers through the strands of blonde hair.*

If you think that was the worst that can be heard here tonight, we have just gone from mediocrity to complete waste of space. That's what I said and no one will tell me otherwise. That whole clown, Switchbxde, is nothing more than a little piece of shit, that blocks the spot for someone who has at least a little bit of talent. Looking at him, I have the impression that it is only a matter of time, and he will join Big Drip Productions. Unless he runs away with tears in his eyes, cause he can't manage. Honestly, I would not be surprised if it were so. Despite this cring look and his edgy attitude, he is a really weak man. A weak man, who thinks that if he curses and provokes fights, others will consider him powerful. Sorry, boy, but such childish tactics do not impress me. To scare me or a t least get my attention, you need a little more than stupid tattoos, fake displays of disinterest, and pointless comments that you are over this company. The truth is completely different. So listen. Instead of showing how ungrateful little bitch you are, you should be kissing the shoes of the person who gave you the contract. If it wasn't for this company, you would be nobody, although you are basically that. So the next time you say something stupid, first think about it twice. Because being cocky and being an idiot are two different things. Therefore, let me give you some advice. Cockiness is a privilege that can be used by those who are great even without the help of others, just like me. Not an easy to crush worm just like you.

*Arata just rolls his eyes, irritated and tired at the mere thought of this man. However, it only gets worse with each move he makes.*

Next on the list of people 'not even worth paying attention to' is Ellie Quinn. Though, to be honest, she is even funny. Why do I mean that? Well, that girl acts as if she was some kind of legend here, while all she did was to have a dark match. I'm not even sure if she won it or not, because I don't give a shit about such an insignificant part of the show. Only losers wrestle outside the main program and looking at this crazy bitch, I don't think I am wrong. It looks like the trauma really made a mess of her head to such an extent that her ego was pushed to the moon. I might think that maybe she is just delusional, but you have to be insane to have such a good opinion about yourself, while she is basically a jobber. Honestly, until this match was announced, I had never heard of someone like Ellie Quinn. Therefore, I do not have too high expectations of her. They are so low that if she does anything well, it'll be sufficient. Well, low level, low ambition makes you demand less from yourself. However, as long as it is pathetic from my perspective, this freak will probably be proud of herself. She will feel like another self-proclaimed queen or goddess or some other overrated shit, that I see everywhere I look.

And at the end of this shitshow, there's a guy that shouldn't even be here. It's fucking ridiculouse, that Mason Destruction was basicly fired a month or so ago and now he's back like nothing had happened. Is this company really a serious place? I am slowly beginning to have doubts about it. But as always, all these gaijins function in this world according to their own privileges, where being fired doesn't matter. Especially since Mason was the only person to blame for what happened to him. If he hadn't been a complete loser and hadn't lost his job at his own request, he wouldn't have been fired for this month. Imagine being so stupid to get yourself pinned nit once, but three times in a match with your career on the line. After such humiliation, he shouldn't come back even if they let him. However, he is here anyway, trying to manipulate others. He wants to show that he is a victim of the ruthless management, while it is completely his fault. This alone is making me start to wonder, why DeMarco has bet on such a person. Because he's in such a hopeless situation that he has nothing to lose? Or maybe he is just looking for a new way to get rid of him? It doesn't change the fact that this is a shitty choice, that will be the final nail in the coffin for Fallout.

*Arata is so relieved that he can finally stop talking about these pseudo-wrestlers. Finally, he is close to an end.*

As I said before. This match is not about anyone, but me. I don't care what the priorities of others are. I am even less interested in the fact that Indy Darling chose me as his representative, because unlike the rest, it is no honor for me. First of all, I don't feel I owe him anything. Indy owes me a lot for the whole time, he has shown me disrespect. Therefore, as agreed, I will deal with Fallout quickly, and then expect my promised reward. My Grand Championship shot.

I will say it for the last time. Better keep your word, Indy, or that five chosen by DeMarco, won't be the only massacred bunch this week.

*A smile appears on Arata's face and his eyes begin to sparkle, slowly turning golden. The camera zooms in and focuses on this view. This is how the recording ends, and after a while the screen fades black.*