Post by MYŌJIN on Mar 30, 2022 22:54:10 GMT -5
…Seven…
Eight…
Nine…
TEN!
Ding. Ding. Ding. And still.
There was a bad taste left in MYOJIN's mouth. What should have been a night of celebration, given they had retained- long enough to secure the fact that soon enough, the Shining Star would become the longest-reigning champion throughout all of Project: Honor- a night that should have left them feeling proud, accomplished, superior than everyone else… Had left them feeling conflicted instead. Conflicted was an understatement, actually, a better way to describe the emotion that they felt was anger. The spotlight was stolen from them. Their night, their moment was now darkened with controversy. Interference from Arata Asakura, both a former ally and enemy, had ruined everything.
The platinum blonde kept replaying the match in their head, kept thinking of those last few moments. Originally, they hadn't realized what had caused Shelldrake to hesitate, but it gave them more than enough time to counter with a Northern Lights Suplex. They had been aware of the referee's count and quickly rolled in, unsure of what had caused their opponent to make such a rookie mistake… Until they saw the all-too-familiar Grand Champion, and instantly, they had realized what had happened. Sure, in the record books, it would say that MYOJIN was victorious. After all, the rules are still the rules. They hadn't cheated, they hadn't caused the situation to happen, no- That was all on those two and their issues that the blonde had somehow gotten dragged into it.
MYOJIN sat in their locker room backstage, declining any impromptu interviews for the moment as they wiped the sweat from their brow with a towel. A slight sting on their bottom lip and the faint taste of iron; blood trickling from the violent match they had just gone through. Staring down at the golden reflection of the X-shaped main plate that lay within the champion's hands, so many questions ran through their mind. Still processing everything that had happened. They knew that they could have beaten Shelldrake, pin, or submission, without any help. Regardless of how close the match was, he hadn't been able to keep up with their speed. But they wouldn't know the answer, now, would they?
A slight tap at the door got their champion, looking up as they sat the championship to the side. Before they reached the door, it was already opened by Caden, who wore a slight awkward grimace on his face as he shut the door behind him.
“So… That happened, huh?”
“...Yeah.”
“I guess you probably don't want me to say congrats right now either?”
“Yeah.”
Neither individual spoke for a few seconds, mainly because Caden was trying to think of something to say. He had known the champion for a while now, long enough to understand just how they were feeling at the moment. Also given the fact that there was a frown coming from their distinct cheekbones. “Well, on the bright side, you should have seen how many cameras and the backstage interviewers were waiting for you to come outside. Thankfully, since I'm the best manager ever, I shooed them all off. You're welcome for that. How are you feeling?”
“I won,” MYOJIN answered, a rather deadpan tone as they patted the X-Factor belt. “But it doesn't really feel like I won. It doesn't feel right. Win or lose, this match didn't end because I outwrestled him as I've done with everyone else. It's like the ending of that fight wasn't entirely in my control, like it should've been. I didn't win because of my own ability as champion, I won because these two manchildren are having a pissing contest and I somehow got caught in the middle of it. So… I can't say that I'm feeling the greatest right now, Caden.”
Caden lightly huffed, as if to say he figured. The manager walked over to stand in front of them, placing his hands on his hips. “Come on, Shouta, don't do this to yourself. Not right now.”
“Do what to myself?” Looking up toward their friend with a confused glare, voice laced with harsh impatience. They knew that they shouldn't take their frustrations out on him, but sometimes he made that extremely hard when he seemingly was never able to read a room.
“This-.... Whatever this self-pity shit is.” Caden generally motioned toward them, shaking his head and responding with a glare on his own. “Do you know what you just did out there tonight, Sho? You won. Not only did you win, but you just continued your reign to become the longest ever in this company. That is something to be proud of! You should be happy, no matter how it went down.”
MYOJIN opened their mouth, obviously with something to counter Caden's words, but he quickly cut them off.
“Did you, yourself, cause Asakura to get involved? No. Did you cause Shelldrake to lose his focus like an idiot? No.. What you DID do was take advantage of the moment, like any wrestler would have done. You'd have been a dumbass if you hadn't. So stop it, stop finding a reason to be angry at yourself. Stop being a whiny, self-loathing bitch and recognize something… You are now about to be the top champion of both Proving Ground and Fallout. Be proud. Alright?"
Truth be told, they were a little stunned.
They had never expected Caden to talk to them like that ever. Even when they grew angry, their manager and best friend had always seemed to be patient. Though the stern look on his face as he crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow as he waited to hear an answer- showed that even he had his limits sometimes. MYOJIN took a deep breath, even if they still to a degree felt bothered by the events of the night, admittedly Caden was right.
Which almost made them feel sick to even believe in their head that he was right about something for once.
“..Okay.”
“Good, plus, I'm sure if management decides- you'll get a chance to prove that you can beat Shelldrake without any complications. But right now? Shouta, it's time to fuckin’relax. Grab a few drinks, maybe party a little, go have some fun and take the edge off. I know a pretty nice club not far from here. We should go!” And just like that, the serious tone completely vanished from Caden, and soon returned his lighthearted, playful, normal self.
“What do you say to that?”
After a few moments of pondering, MYOJIN knew that they had nothing else to do. A faint smile appeared on their face, “Fine. You're paying for the drinks though.”
“...I was hoping you wouldn't say that.”
Contrary to popular belief, it took skill to be a professional model. It took patience, concentration, and the ability to not lose focus. Physical charisma that just came naturally to some, but had to be learned by others. Grace, movement, coordination, dexterity. Traits that not everyone- Not even every beautiful person had. Though MYOJIN did and was well-equipped to pout them to use. Such skills weren't that uncommon to have in professional wrestling as well. It's one of the many things that made them the best.
The view fades into the sound of clicking cameras and flashing lights in a fairly lit room with a blank canvas background. For most, having so many flashing cameras in one's face would be a nightmare. However, the Shining Star- or rather, the Face (or Ace) of Project: Honor was more than used to it. When a person has such as stunning as theirs, it's not irregular to be the center of attention. Holding the prestigious X-Factor Championship draped over their shoulder, MYOJIN wore vibrant designer clothing. An unbuttoned cardigan, showing their toned but slim chest. Eyeliner and lip gloss make their distinctive features pop even more, their white-gold hair slicked back with a few strands hanging over their forehead. With each flick of a photo being captured, the androgynous beaute changed poses. From elegant, to slightly suggestive, cool, or cordial.
MYOJIN had been asked to do a photoshoot for a magazine that was acknowledging their recent accomplishments, which they were more than happy to do. Any chance to serve looks while further boasting was always something that they would make time for. After one last snap of a picture that showed MYOJIN sensually pressing a kiss to the X-Factor Championship, The photographer nodded toward the Shining Star. “Alright, we're finished. Give me a little bit, and we'll have all the pictures done and you can pick the ones you like best.”
MYOJIN nodded, “About time, my legs were starting to hurt.”
Curiously, they turned toward the recording camera. Tilting their head as a little thought came to mind, “Hey, is that still on?”
Given that the view from the lens moved up and down with a nod from the cameraman from behind, MYOJIN showed a white-toothed smile, giving a small wink. “Good. Focus a little more on me, I have some things I want to say. Plus I know this footage is probably going to air on Project: Honor's social media anyways.”
“You know, I tend not to be phased by the predicaments I find myself in when it comes to being a regular in Project: Honor. I've been here long enough to survive just about the one and only Bloodbath match in this company after all. It's nothing new, really, after all- it's professional wrestling. So, of course, management is always having to find new and more interesting ideas of how to entertain the audience both in the arena and at home. So, in all honestly, I shouldn't be surprised at all- And yet, somehow, I am.”
Laughing lightly as they ran a hand through the silky locks of their hair with melodramatic flair that only they could make work. “Keep Your Enemies Close. The six of us have all found ourselves in a rather interesting predicament, haven't we? Asakura and Emmanuelle, the two who have been battling over the Grand Championship for months. English and Giovanni, who just recently took the Warrior Rising title from the aforementioned incel edgelord… and Shelldrake and yours truly. It's no secret that this match in no way shape or form is going to end with any of these pairings shaking hands and hugging it out, isn't it? Though that doesn't bother me. I'm a professional, I've had to work under worse conditions. Honestly, it's about time I've been in the Main Event of a show again. Because what would Proving Ground be without its brightest Star?”
Giving a wink, the X-Factor Champion motioned for the camera to stay focused on them as they walked over to sit down in a nearby chair. They laid their golden possession on their lap, crossing their legs and bringing a hand to their chin.
“I just can't help but find this match rather… interesting. It's not dysfunctional teams that inevitably are going to break up that interest me. Nor is it guessing who is going to turn on who first… But I've noticed a simple fact: I have beaten three people in this match.”
The cutesy grin on MYOJIN's face turned into a smug smirk, “Not only that, but out of any person in this match- Who has been having a better 2022 than me? As of today, I've reached 192 days as the X-Factor Champion. The greatest champion of all time in Project: Honor history, if you will. While Asakura and Emmanuelle were passing the Grand title back and forth, while English after all his tough talk about how big and scary he is- lost to a textbook roll-up. While Shelldrake continues his ongoing streak of choking when it matters the most, I've been sitting here happily in my throne with my crown. And I just know that pisses a good handful of you off, doesn't it? I know that it paints a target on my back. That doesn't bother me, because frankly- none of you besides Emmanuelle has ever had my number. I might be the most levelheaded person in this match, given I don't actually have much hatred toward Shelldrake. That would imply that I actually think about him enough to hate him.”
“Speaking of that lanky loser, I told you so. I told you that making so many enemies would eventually bite you in the ass, sweetheart, and look what happened. It's not fun when you're suffering from the consequences of your own actions, is it?”
MYOJIN lightly, laughed, clasping their hands together. “I can already imagine the things that he's saying. The excuses that he's making. About my win against him was a fluke, about how if it weren't for Asakura, he would be standing here as the new X-Factor Champion. Unfortunately, honey, saying something a lot of times doesn't make what you're saying true. The facts are simple; you choked. Asakura didn't lay a hand on you, but you froze when you saw him- was it out of fear? Seemed like it to me. Like a rookie, you lost your focus, and I took advantage. That's on you more than anything else- and I'd be glad to give you a rematch just to show you that the outcome would've been worse for you if Asakura hadn't showed. Because I wouldn't have been satisfied until I made you tap out.”
“Then that brings me to the dork who thinks watching Fight Club a million times counts as a personality trait, heya Cassy! Did you miss me, babe? I've got to admit, I find it pretty hilarious that after talking so big even after I beat you, that you got beat by a simple textbook roll-up. You know, the kind of one that they teach you how to counter in like your second week at wrestling school?”
“Oh, who am I kidding- It's just like you to come up short, you and Shelldrake are a match made in heaven. Two jokes who have convinced themselves that they're the greatest, scariest fighters. You two aren't just wrestlers, right, no- You're CAGE FIGHTERS. DEADLY ASSASSINS, something like that?” The venomous sarcasm in MYOJIN's tone was evident as they rolled their eyes. “Yet as often as you both seem to fail, you always have something to blame. Some excuses. At least Shelldrake has a good one this time around, you, English? I was kind of hoping that by humbling you would actually stop with the self-fellatio and realize that you trying your hardest to seem cool by basing your entire personality off of someone's Tumblr account from 2014 is holding you back. Seems I expected wrong. I'm disappointed, truly.”
“And then there's you, Arata,” The nonchalant smile on the X-Factor Champion's face faded as they looked over their multi-colored painted nails. “Speaking of roll-ups earlier, didn't I beat you before with a simple Schoolboy? I've got to say, out of all the Grand Champions that have come and went- You seem to be the most.. Lacking. I mean, let's be honest here… As much as I don't care for Watson, Hunter, OR Ozymandias… They actually survived their first defenses. You? It took you forever to win the big one, and then when you did… Well, you lost to my dear partner in crime, Emmanuelle. Sure, you won the belt back- But I don't really consider easy challenges being thrown your way so you don't lose the belt so easily this time as that impressive. I've overshadowed both of your reigns with ease. Matter of fact, if anyone truly has a claim to challenging you for the Grand title- It'd be [n]me[/b]. I don't appreciate that you interfered in my business, because I don't want OR need your help. What I DO want? Is to further prove my superiority over you once again.”[/color]
“Giovanni, you're kind of adorable. In a non-threatening puppy kind of way. Congratulations on winning your belt, but everyone knows that you had to cheat a tad to do it. If it was anyone else but English that you did that too, I wouldn't like as you much- And I already don't really like you. Simply though, you're out of your league just like Cassy-boy was when he was in the ring with me. You should hope he doesn't try to get revenge though, he tends to have temper tantrums.”
MYOJIN leaned back in their chair, hands behind their fluffy-haired hand with a little laugh. “And then there's you. Emannuelle. My tag partner. One of my closest friends that I've ever had in Project: Honor. Someone that I have history with since all the way back from Wrestleworld in 2020. You know that I love you like a sister, right? So, please don't take too much offense when I'm brutally honest with you and ask: What the fuck has happened to the Emmanuelle that I know?”
“The Emmanuelle that I know was one of the most dominant Warrior Rising Champions of all time, you beat Arata once in Wrestleworld- once here. You even made me tap out a long time ago, but both of us have changed since then. I've evolved, I've grown for the better… But have you been growing soft on me, Emmy? Losing twice to Tara, losing the so-called biggest prize on Proving Ground back to Asakura immediately? It feels like you have been starting to regress, hopefully us fighting will invigorate some of the strength and passion that I know you have. But if you can't bring on the Emmanuelle of the past, the Platinum Standard that I know is capable of anything she puts her mind to? Then it's not going to be a very pretty night for you.”
“Proving Ground is going to be a warzone, but to be honest? You don't have to guess which team will be most likely to win. As much as I think Shelldrake is a choke artist, thankfully this isn't a title match for him to fold in, he's skilled- I'll admit that much. But I'm not stupid. If I even get the slightest feeling that he's about to try and betray me? I'm kicking his head off his pencil neck before he can even realize it. Arata and Emmanuelle? Absolutely hate each other, I doubt they'll get along at all. English and Giovanni? Am I seriously supposed to feel threatened by either of those two?”
Leaning forward, the X-Factor Champion placed their belt around their shoulder once again. “It's just going to be another night for the main attraction on Proving Ground, if my team wins- Nice. Though I'll gladly leave Shelldrake to the wolves if necessary-”
“The photos are done, just tell me the ones you like the most. We'll probably use your favorite for the cover.” The photographer walked over with a sheet of all the photos from the shoot printed on the paper, MYOJIN blew a kiss toward the camera before getting up and walking to the photographer.
“Oooh, you know, I think my hair looks best on this on~...”
Back and forth. Back and forth.
A lot had been going on in their life. Well, that was putting it lightly. In the past month, MYOJIN had reached an accolade they had been dreaming of for the longest- but also ended up losing something that was so much more important; the love of their life. Himari calling off their engagement still rested in their mind, no matter how much they tried to not think about. That twinge of regret, sadness, loneliness whenever her smile came to mind- or they saw a photo of her and them together in their phone. Everything in their home tended to remind them of her… How could they simply just keep going on without someone who had been with them through everything.
What hurt the most, was knowing that it was their fault she decided to go. Knowing that they had taken her love, affection, and support for granted while putting her through so much- like worrying about their safety every time they traveled out to a show…
But they couldn't afford to think of her, not right now, at least. They had to get prepared for their upcoming match.
Though, truth be told, that was just an excuse to get Himari off of their mind.
The sound of footsteps thumping heavily against a ring mat echoed through the quiet gym. MYOJIN ran the ropes back and forth, picking up momentum. They turned their speed toward the corner, grabbing onto the ropes and hopping up- bringing their feet onto the second turnbuckle. Using the bounce, they springed off of it- backflipping and landing on their feet, then smoothly transitioning nto a backroll before turning toward the opposite corner. MYOJIN preceded to do the same thing, this time using the top turnbuckle for extra height. Sweat drenched their snug fitting Under Armour athletic tee. They then ran the ropes one more time, this time vaulting over the top with a Tope Con HIlo before landing into a bunch of crash pads with a grunt. Breathing heavily as they stared up at the ceiling lights… until a face came into frame.
“What the hell are you doing?” Akira or better known as YOKAI, their sister and current Slaughterhouse SHUDDER TV Champion asked with a bewildered look on her face. MYOJIN lightly grinned as they sat up, finding it funny imagining her initial reaction to them bouncing around the place.
“Just a little training, trying to keep my agility in check. Staying limber is important.” They spoke, taking their sister's hand as she helped them up.
“Yeah, but you called me up here THIS late at night? That's not very like you. You've always annoyingly kinda been an early bird. What's up?”
MYOJIN walked over to the apron of the ring, hopping onto it while picking up a bottle of water. Opening it, they took a sip, before sighing with relief. “Nothing, just kind of wanted to spar with someone. Why not with another champon in the family? We haven't gone one-on-one in a while.”
Akira lightly frowned, choosing her next words carefully. “Does… this have something to do with Himari?”
There it was, “Shouta, I don't mean to be in your business or anything.. But I know when you're upset, you tend to hold up here for a while.. You do know that you can talk to me though, right? About how you're feeli-”
“...Can we… not, Akira? I just… I don't want to do that right now.” And like that, the upbeat expression on MYOJIN's face was gone. Replaced with a troubled, heartbroken, pained tone in their voice. Akira bit her lip, but nodded empathetically.
“That's okay. You don't have to until whenever you feel ready…” She spoke lowly, briefly averting her gaze. “How about we try some mat wrestling before we start seriously sparring? Hm?”
MYOJIN lightly nodded, “That sounds good to me.”
Anything would be a good distraction.
Eight…
Nine…
TEN!
Ding. Ding. Ding. And still.
There was a bad taste left in MYOJIN's mouth. What should have been a night of celebration, given they had retained- long enough to secure the fact that soon enough, the Shining Star would become the longest-reigning champion throughout all of Project: Honor- a night that should have left them feeling proud, accomplished, superior than everyone else… Had left them feeling conflicted instead. Conflicted was an understatement, actually, a better way to describe the emotion that they felt was anger. The spotlight was stolen from them. Their night, their moment was now darkened with controversy. Interference from Arata Asakura, both a former ally and enemy, had ruined everything.
The platinum blonde kept replaying the match in their head, kept thinking of those last few moments. Originally, they hadn't realized what had caused Shelldrake to hesitate, but it gave them more than enough time to counter with a Northern Lights Suplex. They had been aware of the referee's count and quickly rolled in, unsure of what had caused their opponent to make such a rookie mistake… Until they saw the all-too-familiar Grand Champion, and instantly, they had realized what had happened. Sure, in the record books, it would say that MYOJIN was victorious. After all, the rules are still the rules. They hadn't cheated, they hadn't caused the situation to happen, no- That was all on those two and their issues that the blonde had somehow gotten dragged into it.
MYOJIN sat in their locker room backstage, declining any impromptu interviews for the moment as they wiped the sweat from their brow with a towel. A slight sting on their bottom lip and the faint taste of iron; blood trickling from the violent match they had just gone through. Staring down at the golden reflection of the X-shaped main plate that lay within the champion's hands, so many questions ran through their mind. Still processing everything that had happened. They knew that they could have beaten Shelldrake, pin, or submission, without any help. Regardless of how close the match was, he hadn't been able to keep up with their speed. But they wouldn't know the answer, now, would they?
A slight tap at the door got their champion, looking up as they sat the championship to the side. Before they reached the door, it was already opened by Caden, who wore a slight awkward grimace on his face as he shut the door behind him.
“So… That happened, huh?”
“...Yeah.”
“I guess you probably don't want me to say congrats right now either?”
“Yeah.”
Neither individual spoke for a few seconds, mainly because Caden was trying to think of something to say. He had known the champion for a while now, long enough to understand just how they were feeling at the moment. Also given the fact that there was a frown coming from their distinct cheekbones. “Well, on the bright side, you should have seen how many cameras and the backstage interviewers were waiting for you to come outside. Thankfully, since I'm the best manager ever, I shooed them all off. You're welcome for that. How are you feeling?”
“I won,” MYOJIN answered, a rather deadpan tone as they patted the X-Factor belt. “But it doesn't really feel like I won. It doesn't feel right. Win or lose, this match didn't end because I outwrestled him as I've done with everyone else. It's like the ending of that fight wasn't entirely in my control, like it should've been. I didn't win because of my own ability as champion, I won because these two manchildren are having a pissing contest and I somehow got caught in the middle of it. So… I can't say that I'm feeling the greatest right now, Caden.”
Caden lightly huffed, as if to say he figured. The manager walked over to stand in front of them, placing his hands on his hips. “Come on, Shouta, don't do this to yourself. Not right now.”
“Do what to myself?” Looking up toward their friend with a confused glare, voice laced with harsh impatience. They knew that they shouldn't take their frustrations out on him, but sometimes he made that extremely hard when he seemingly was never able to read a room.
“This-.... Whatever this self-pity shit is.” Caden generally motioned toward them, shaking his head and responding with a glare on his own. “Do you know what you just did out there tonight, Sho? You won. Not only did you win, but you just continued your reign to become the longest ever in this company. That is something to be proud of! You should be happy, no matter how it went down.”
MYOJIN opened their mouth, obviously with something to counter Caden's words, but he quickly cut them off.
“Did you, yourself, cause Asakura to get involved? No. Did you cause Shelldrake to lose his focus like an idiot? No.. What you DID do was take advantage of the moment, like any wrestler would have done. You'd have been a dumbass if you hadn't. So stop it, stop finding a reason to be angry at yourself. Stop being a whiny, self-loathing bitch and recognize something… You are now about to be the top champion of both Proving Ground and Fallout. Be proud. Alright?"
Truth be told, they were a little stunned.
They had never expected Caden to talk to them like that ever. Even when they grew angry, their manager and best friend had always seemed to be patient. Though the stern look on his face as he crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow as he waited to hear an answer- showed that even he had his limits sometimes. MYOJIN took a deep breath, even if they still to a degree felt bothered by the events of the night, admittedly Caden was right.
Which almost made them feel sick to even believe in their head that he was right about something for once.
“..Okay.”
“Good, plus, I'm sure if management decides- you'll get a chance to prove that you can beat Shelldrake without any complications. But right now? Shouta, it's time to fuckin’relax. Grab a few drinks, maybe party a little, go have some fun and take the edge off. I know a pretty nice club not far from here. We should go!” And just like that, the serious tone completely vanished from Caden, and soon returned his lighthearted, playful, normal self.
“What do you say to that?”
After a few moments of pondering, MYOJIN knew that they had nothing else to do. A faint smile appeared on their face, “Fine. You're paying for the drinks though.”
“...I was hoping you wouldn't say that.”
Contrary to popular belief, it took skill to be a professional model. It took patience, concentration, and the ability to not lose focus. Physical charisma that just came naturally to some, but had to be learned by others. Grace, movement, coordination, dexterity. Traits that not everyone- Not even every beautiful person had. Though MYOJIN did and was well-equipped to pout them to use. Such skills weren't that uncommon to have in professional wrestling as well. It's one of the many things that made them the best.
The view fades into the sound of clicking cameras and flashing lights in a fairly lit room with a blank canvas background. For most, having so many flashing cameras in one's face would be a nightmare. However, the Shining Star- or rather, the Face (or Ace) of Project: Honor was more than used to it. When a person has such as stunning as theirs, it's not irregular to be the center of attention. Holding the prestigious X-Factor Championship draped over their shoulder, MYOJIN wore vibrant designer clothing. An unbuttoned cardigan, showing their toned but slim chest. Eyeliner and lip gloss make their distinctive features pop even more, their white-gold hair slicked back with a few strands hanging over their forehead. With each flick of a photo being captured, the androgynous beaute changed poses. From elegant, to slightly suggestive, cool, or cordial.
MYOJIN had been asked to do a photoshoot for a magazine that was acknowledging their recent accomplishments, which they were more than happy to do. Any chance to serve looks while further boasting was always something that they would make time for. After one last snap of a picture that showed MYOJIN sensually pressing a kiss to the X-Factor Championship, The photographer nodded toward the Shining Star. “Alright, we're finished. Give me a little bit, and we'll have all the pictures done and you can pick the ones you like best.”
MYOJIN nodded, “About time, my legs were starting to hurt.”
Curiously, they turned toward the recording camera. Tilting their head as a little thought came to mind, “Hey, is that still on?”
Given that the view from the lens moved up and down with a nod from the cameraman from behind, MYOJIN showed a white-toothed smile, giving a small wink. “Good. Focus a little more on me, I have some things I want to say. Plus I know this footage is probably going to air on Project: Honor's social media anyways.”
“You know, I tend not to be phased by the predicaments I find myself in when it comes to being a regular in Project: Honor. I've been here long enough to survive just about the one and only Bloodbath match in this company after all. It's nothing new, really, after all- it's professional wrestling. So, of course, management is always having to find new and more interesting ideas of how to entertain the audience both in the arena and at home. So, in all honestly, I shouldn't be surprised at all- And yet, somehow, I am.”
Laughing lightly as they ran a hand through the silky locks of their hair with melodramatic flair that only they could make work. “Keep Your Enemies Close. The six of us have all found ourselves in a rather interesting predicament, haven't we? Asakura and Emmanuelle, the two who have been battling over the Grand Championship for months. English and Giovanni, who just recently took the Warrior Rising title from the aforementioned incel edgelord… and Shelldrake and yours truly. It's no secret that this match in no way shape or form is going to end with any of these pairings shaking hands and hugging it out, isn't it? Though that doesn't bother me. I'm a professional, I've had to work under worse conditions. Honestly, it's about time I've been in the Main Event of a show again. Because what would Proving Ground be without its brightest Star?”
Giving a wink, the X-Factor Champion motioned for the camera to stay focused on them as they walked over to sit down in a nearby chair. They laid their golden possession on their lap, crossing their legs and bringing a hand to their chin.
“I just can't help but find this match rather… interesting. It's not dysfunctional teams that inevitably are going to break up that interest me. Nor is it guessing who is going to turn on who first… But I've noticed a simple fact: I have beaten three people in this match.”
The cutesy grin on MYOJIN's face turned into a smug smirk, “Not only that, but out of any person in this match- Who has been having a better 2022 than me? As of today, I've reached 192 days as the X-Factor Champion. The greatest champion of all time in Project: Honor history, if you will. While Asakura and Emmanuelle were passing the Grand title back and forth, while English after all his tough talk about how big and scary he is- lost to a textbook roll-up. While Shelldrake continues his ongoing streak of choking when it matters the most, I've been sitting here happily in my throne with my crown. And I just know that pisses a good handful of you off, doesn't it? I know that it paints a target on my back. That doesn't bother me, because frankly- none of you besides Emmanuelle has ever had my number. I might be the most levelheaded person in this match, given I don't actually have much hatred toward Shelldrake. That would imply that I actually think about him enough to hate him.”
“Speaking of that lanky loser, I told you so. I told you that making so many enemies would eventually bite you in the ass, sweetheart, and look what happened. It's not fun when you're suffering from the consequences of your own actions, is it?”
MYOJIN lightly, laughed, clasping their hands together. “I can already imagine the things that he's saying. The excuses that he's making. About my win against him was a fluke, about how if it weren't for Asakura, he would be standing here as the new X-Factor Champion. Unfortunately, honey, saying something a lot of times doesn't make what you're saying true. The facts are simple; you choked. Asakura didn't lay a hand on you, but you froze when you saw him- was it out of fear? Seemed like it to me. Like a rookie, you lost your focus, and I took advantage. That's on you more than anything else- and I'd be glad to give you a rematch just to show you that the outcome would've been worse for you if Asakura hadn't showed. Because I wouldn't have been satisfied until I made you tap out.”
“Then that brings me to the dork who thinks watching Fight Club a million times counts as a personality trait, heya Cassy! Did you miss me, babe? I've got to admit, I find it pretty hilarious that after talking so big even after I beat you, that you got beat by a simple textbook roll-up. You know, the kind of one that they teach you how to counter in like your second week at wrestling school?”
“Oh, who am I kidding- It's just like you to come up short, you and Shelldrake are a match made in heaven. Two jokes who have convinced themselves that they're the greatest, scariest fighters. You two aren't just wrestlers, right, no- You're CAGE FIGHTERS. DEADLY ASSASSINS, something like that?” The venomous sarcasm in MYOJIN's tone was evident as they rolled their eyes. “Yet as often as you both seem to fail, you always have something to blame. Some excuses. At least Shelldrake has a good one this time around, you, English? I was kind of hoping that by humbling you would actually stop with the self-fellatio and realize that you trying your hardest to seem cool by basing your entire personality off of someone's Tumblr account from 2014 is holding you back. Seems I expected wrong. I'm disappointed, truly.”
“And then there's you, Arata,” The nonchalant smile on the X-Factor Champion's face faded as they looked over their multi-colored painted nails. “Speaking of roll-ups earlier, didn't I beat you before with a simple Schoolboy? I've got to say, out of all the Grand Champions that have come and went- You seem to be the most.. Lacking. I mean, let's be honest here… As much as I don't care for Watson, Hunter, OR Ozymandias… They actually survived their first defenses. You? It took you forever to win the big one, and then when you did… Well, you lost to my dear partner in crime, Emmanuelle. Sure, you won the belt back- But I don't really consider easy challenges being thrown your way so you don't lose the belt so easily this time as that impressive. I've overshadowed both of your reigns with ease. Matter of fact, if anyone truly has a claim to challenging you for the Grand title- It'd be [n]me[/b]. I don't appreciate that you interfered in my business, because I don't want OR need your help. What I DO want? Is to further prove my superiority over you once again.”[/color]
“Giovanni, you're kind of adorable. In a non-threatening puppy kind of way. Congratulations on winning your belt, but everyone knows that you had to cheat a tad to do it. If it was anyone else but English that you did that too, I wouldn't like as you much- And I already don't really like you. Simply though, you're out of your league just like Cassy-boy was when he was in the ring with me. You should hope he doesn't try to get revenge though, he tends to have temper tantrums.”
MYOJIN leaned back in their chair, hands behind their fluffy-haired hand with a little laugh. “And then there's you. Emannuelle. My tag partner. One of my closest friends that I've ever had in Project: Honor. Someone that I have history with since all the way back from Wrestleworld in 2020. You know that I love you like a sister, right? So, please don't take too much offense when I'm brutally honest with you and ask: What the fuck has happened to the Emmanuelle that I know?”
“The Emmanuelle that I know was one of the most dominant Warrior Rising Champions of all time, you beat Arata once in Wrestleworld- once here. You even made me tap out a long time ago, but both of us have changed since then. I've evolved, I've grown for the better… But have you been growing soft on me, Emmy? Losing twice to Tara, losing the so-called biggest prize on Proving Ground back to Asakura immediately? It feels like you have been starting to regress, hopefully us fighting will invigorate some of the strength and passion that I know you have. But if you can't bring on the Emmanuelle of the past, the Platinum Standard that I know is capable of anything she puts her mind to? Then it's not going to be a very pretty night for you.”
“Proving Ground is going to be a warzone, but to be honest? You don't have to guess which team will be most likely to win. As much as I think Shelldrake is a choke artist, thankfully this isn't a title match for him to fold in, he's skilled- I'll admit that much. But I'm not stupid. If I even get the slightest feeling that he's about to try and betray me? I'm kicking his head off his pencil neck before he can even realize it. Arata and Emmanuelle? Absolutely hate each other, I doubt they'll get along at all. English and Giovanni? Am I seriously supposed to feel threatened by either of those two?”
Leaning forward, the X-Factor Champion placed their belt around their shoulder once again. “It's just going to be another night for the main attraction on Proving Ground, if my team wins- Nice. Though I'll gladly leave Shelldrake to the wolves if necessary-”
“The photos are done, just tell me the ones you like the most. We'll probably use your favorite for the cover.” The photographer walked over with a sheet of all the photos from the shoot printed on the paper, MYOJIN blew a kiss toward the camera before getting up and walking to the photographer.
“Oooh, you know, I think my hair looks best on this on~...”
Back and forth. Back and forth.
A lot had been going on in their life. Well, that was putting it lightly. In the past month, MYOJIN had reached an accolade they had been dreaming of for the longest- but also ended up losing something that was so much more important; the love of their life. Himari calling off their engagement still rested in their mind, no matter how much they tried to not think about. That twinge of regret, sadness, loneliness whenever her smile came to mind- or they saw a photo of her and them together in their phone. Everything in their home tended to remind them of her… How could they simply just keep going on without someone who had been with them through everything.
What hurt the most, was knowing that it was their fault she decided to go. Knowing that they had taken her love, affection, and support for granted while putting her through so much- like worrying about their safety every time they traveled out to a show…
But they couldn't afford to think of her, not right now, at least. They had to get prepared for their upcoming match.
Though, truth be told, that was just an excuse to get Himari off of their mind.
The sound of footsteps thumping heavily against a ring mat echoed through the quiet gym. MYOJIN ran the ropes back and forth, picking up momentum. They turned their speed toward the corner, grabbing onto the ropes and hopping up- bringing their feet onto the second turnbuckle. Using the bounce, they springed off of it- backflipping and landing on their feet, then smoothly transitioning nto a backroll before turning toward the opposite corner. MYOJIN preceded to do the same thing, this time using the top turnbuckle for extra height. Sweat drenched their snug fitting Under Armour athletic tee. They then ran the ropes one more time, this time vaulting over the top with a Tope Con HIlo before landing into a bunch of crash pads with a grunt. Breathing heavily as they stared up at the ceiling lights… until a face came into frame.
“What the hell are you doing?” Akira or better known as YOKAI, their sister and current Slaughterhouse SHUDDER TV Champion asked with a bewildered look on her face. MYOJIN lightly grinned as they sat up, finding it funny imagining her initial reaction to them bouncing around the place.
“Just a little training, trying to keep my agility in check. Staying limber is important.” They spoke, taking their sister's hand as she helped them up.
“Yeah, but you called me up here THIS late at night? That's not very like you. You've always annoyingly kinda been an early bird. What's up?”
MYOJIN walked over to the apron of the ring, hopping onto it while picking up a bottle of water. Opening it, they took a sip, before sighing with relief. “Nothing, just kind of wanted to spar with someone. Why not with another champon in the family? We haven't gone one-on-one in a while.”
Akira lightly frowned, choosing her next words carefully. “Does… this have something to do with Himari?”
There it was, “Shouta, I don't mean to be in your business or anything.. But I know when you're upset, you tend to hold up here for a while.. You do know that you can talk to me though, right? About how you're feeli-”
“...Can we… not, Akira? I just… I don't want to do that right now.” And like that, the upbeat expression on MYOJIN's face was gone. Replaced with a troubled, heartbroken, pained tone in their voice. Akira bit her lip, but nodded empathetically.
“That's okay. You don't have to until whenever you feel ready…” She spoke lowly, briefly averting her gaze. “How about we try some mat wrestling before we start seriously sparring? Hm?”
MYOJIN lightly nodded, “That sounds good to me.”
Anything would be a good distraction.