Post by Manabu on Mar 29, 2012 17:20:42 GMT -5
A Talk with Lady Luck and Destiny
Section 1
Flashback
Dr. Conor:
“Students, do you know the reason why I’m so hard on you all?”
The middle-aged man with sandy brown hair turns towards a group of 20 college seniors. These senior would be graduating and heading out into the real world in two short weeks. The professor takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes. It was 8:30 in the morning玆a time that neither he nor the students wanted to be in class.
The students don’t make a sound, they just look at the man. Dr. Conor shakes his head.
Dr. Conor:
“Anyone?”
The man points at a student, who is sitting in the front row.
Dr. Conor:
“Mr. Fujiwara, I know you have an answer to my question.”
The class turns and stares at Manabu; it’s up to him to answer for the entire class. Manabu sighs as he runs his fingers through his hair.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, you are so hard on us all because you want us to succeed, not just in or careers, but in life. The world isn’t going to be easy on us, so why should you.”
Dr. Conor nods his head.
Dr. Conor:
“Very well put Mr. Fujiwara.
“Now, we are in 500 level communications class. Do you have any idea why I have been making you all learn about other things, such as economics and such?”
The class turns and looks at Manabu.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, for a couple of reasons. We need to be well-round, so that we can communicate.
“The second reason, well, from our studies we have learned that many of us are interested in other areas besides communications.”
Dr. Conor:
“That is correct.
“Communications is your major. But, I also want you all to be aware that you are very proficient in other areas. Many of you have learned that you are great in economics, others learned that you could make it in the science field.
“I want you to remember this when you graduate玆you all are special people. The job market is always tough to break into, and you may not even find a job in that field. But, hopefully, now you all know that you can excel in other areas. You all should know that if things the work out in communications, you have got other options!”
Dr. Conor looks at his watch.
Dr. Conor:
“Well, it looks like we are out of time. I will see you all Monday. Remember, we will be doing class evolutions, so bring a pencil.”
The students begin to shuffle out of the room.
Dr. Conor:
“Manabu, may I speak to you for a moment?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Sure Dr. Conor.”
Dr. Conor walks over and talks a seat next to Manabu.
Dr. Conor:
“I wanted to talk to you about last week’s paper, the one about choosing an alternative career path.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.
“Was there something wrong with it?”
Dr. Conor:
“No, not at all. Your papers are always well written.
“I wanted to discuss the career a bit. I had no idea that you were interested in wrestling.”
Manabu laughs a bit.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I wasn’t when I was younger. But, lately, I’ve really taken a liking to it.”
Dr. Conor:
“My cousin was a wrestler back in the day; I never got into the ring myself. Although, I did help set up the ring, and I did a bit of commentating.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Really?”
Dr. Conor:
“Yes.
“Let me ask, what do you plan on doing after graduation?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, I plan on going to school to be a paralegal. Then eventually, I’d like to become a lawyer sometime down the road.”
Dr. Conor:
“Very nice choice.
“And what about wrestling?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, it would be nice. But I don’t…”
Dr. Conor holds up a hand.
Dr. Conor:
“No ‘buts’ Manabu. Sir, you are one of my best students. You can do ANYTHING if you put your mind to it, I’ve seen that first hand. Now, I’m not telling you to give up becoming a paralegal or a lawyer. But, based on our paper, you seem to believe you would make a great wrestler. And, unlike entering the law field, becoming a wrestler has a shorter time frame. So, if it’s something you really want to do, then do it!”
Manabu nods his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Thank you very much sir.”
Section 2
Cammy always love to celebrate after a win. The L.A. Vikings had one their first preseason game, and in impressive fashion to boot. To celebrate, the team rented out a small lounge. Cammy wanted really wanted Manabu to come, but, his flight was a couple hours late.
To make up for it, Manabu took her out for breakfast in the morning. Manabu wasn’t a big fan of I-Hop, but Cammy was, so that’s where he took her. Afterwards, the two had coffee and pastries at the Starbucks.
Cammy takes a long sip of her coffee, she then smiles at Manabu, who is sitting across the table from her.
Cammy:
“You are the best boyfriend I could ever ask for.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“And you are the best girlfriend I could as for.”
He sighs a bit.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Babe, I’m so sorry.”
Cammy:
“For missing the party? I told you that wasn’t a big deal dear.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“No, it is a big deal. I feel like I haven’t been as supportive of your career as you have been of mine. That party was important to you.”
Cammy grabs his hand.
Cammy:
“Babe, your flight was delayed. There was nothing you could do about that!”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yeah…but then this week I’ve got to train for this title re-match. I won’t be able to come to your game on Thursday and…”
Cammy playfully breaks off a piece of her scone and stuffs it in Manabu’s mouth.
Cammy:
“Hush you!
“For one, you attended my first preseason, in which you braved cold weather. Furthermore, you gave me your blessing to get back into soccer; my own family discouraged me from doing that.
“So as far as I’m concerned, you have been the most supportive.”
Manabu presses her hand.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Thanks babe.”
Cammy:
“Now back to you sir. How do you feel about this match? Are you excited about it?
“And be honest!”
Manabu shifts in his seat.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’m excited to have another opportunity at the UWA Championship.
“But I’ll be honest, I’m not ‘excited’ per se for the match. If anything, I guess you could say I’m a little bit anxious.”
Cammy nods her head.
Cammy:
“Perfectly understandable.
“I know you; you are beginning to doubt your skills. That’s something I’ve always noticed about you Manabu. 99 percent of the time, you are confident. However, one percent of the time, you are unsure of your skills.
“Personally, as your girlfriend, I think it’s a bit cute, it shows that you aren’t a machine, that you are human.
“But professionally, that hurts you dear. You need to believe in yourself at ALL times!”
Manabu nods his head as he takes a sip of his coffee.
Cammy:
“However, I think you are capable of winning this match. But now, YOU need to believe it as well.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You are right dear…”
Before Manabu can finish his statement, he notices that someone has been hovering over the table of a couple of seconds. Manabu looks up and sees a tall man his sandy colored hair. It takes him a few seconds to recognize who the man is.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Dr. Conor!?”
Dr. Conor:
“Manabu Fujiwara!”
Manabu stands up and embraces his old professor.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Long time no see sir!
“Please, join us.”
Dr. Conor takes a seat.
Dr. Conor:
“Is that you Ms. Torrow?”
Cammy smiles.
Cammy:
“Yes sir.
“How have you been Dr. Conor?”
Dr. Conor:
“I’ve been doing great.
“I hear you have been leading the Vikings to victory lately.”
Cammy:
“You follow soccer?”
Dr. Conor:
“Ha, just a little bit.” He then turns to Manabu. “I also follow wrestling a little bit. I hear you have made quite a name for yourself.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Haha, yeah.”
Cammy:
“And this week he has the chance to become the world champion in his company, for the second time.”
Dr. Conor:
“Is that so?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.”
Conor studies Manabu’s face.
Dr. Conor:
“Hmmm.
“You don’t seem to convinced Manabu.”
Manabu hesitates for a few seconds.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’m…I guess I’m a little bit anxious about this match. When I faced Neptune, the previous holder, I wasn’t nervous or anxious one bit. But, Joanne has been the only person in the company to stop me at every turn.”
Dr. Conor:
“Anxious huh?
“Manabu, do you know what anxiety is? Anxiety is nothing but fear. Now, fear is a powerful instrument. Fear keeps us from doing a lot of great things.
“Can I ask, are you confident in your abilities sir?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.”
Dr. Conor:
“Then that should be enough to get you through this match. You have gotten to the top once before, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to get there once again. If you remember, shortly before you graduated, I told you that you could do ANYTHING if you put your mind to it.
“So, it really comes down to this; do you WANT to win this match or not? If you don’t, then you might as well not show up to the area.”
Manabu doesn’t say a word, but, his eyes turns down towards the floor. However, Dr. Conor smiles.
Dr. Conor:
“But, there was no reason for me to ask that question was it?
“You haven’t changed a bit Manabu. Even though I can see that you are anxious, I can still sense that fire in you. I’m sure being a champion is a tough task, but you want to win this match.
“Now sir, my advice to you now would be to take some time. Go clear your head; go fine yourself. Get ride of that fear.
“And, when get done, I believe you will be fired up and ready to roll.”
Dr. Conor looks down at his watch.
Dr. Conor:
“Well, I’ve probably taken too much of your time up already. Besides, I’ve got a seminar to attend.
“See you too later, and remember my words Manabu!”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.
“Take care.”
Dr. Conor exits the coffee shop. Cammy turns to Manabu.
Cammy:
“Well, you heard the doctor.”
The two both laugh.
Section 3
After reflecting on his talk with Dr. Conor, he decided to take some time and get away. That night, he left his apartment at 1:23 a.m.; Cammy was on the couch playing FIFA at the time. Since it was late, he decided to go for a drive around town.
He drove past the nightclubs; they were busy as always. He rolled down the window of his Audi, letting some cool air trickle into the vehicle.
Some people recognized him and began shout. Manabu gave them a courtesy hand wave, acknowledging their shouts.
All this commotion wasn’t conducive, so, Manabu traveled to his old neighbor next. Manabu hated the place growing up. It wasn’t a bad place back then, no, far from it. But, it always rubbed him the wrong way. Perhaps it was because there weren’t a lot of kids for him to interact with. Later in life Manabu discovered that house mortgages and rental prices were over-priced, even for L.A.
However, he smiled when he rolled past his old house. It was a large white house on the corner of the street; a chain fence, huge lawn, and a tree completed everything.
The outside of the house had changed since the last time he visited the place, which was right before he left for wrestling school.
Manabu then hit the highway. What better way to relax than miles of open road?
He pooped in a CD that had been given a couple weeks ago; the artist was a guy named Danny Brown.
It's the Adderall Admiral, writing holy macarel
Your b**** say my d*** long like the strap on a satchel
I took me a capsule with no hassle
Now it's like I dip feathers of ink in a castle
A prodigy like bullets that hit your left clavicle
No sweatsuits and paint the avenue
You have no clue like toy stores without board games
But when I paint pictures, I'm dipping brushes in war paint
Manabu cringes and turns the CD player off. Instead, he switches to talk radio, which he can admit isn’t any less raunchy. But, it’s more to his liking.
He listens to it for a few minutes, then turns the sound down after a few moments. He then lets a large sigh.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“A few months ago I joined UWA. Now, what most people don’t know is, I didn’t want anything to do with a title belt when I first signed the contract. To be honest, I was content just being back in the ring after my two-year hiatus.
“Well, maybe content isn’t the right word. But, after I had gone through in XDF, I was just glad a promotion had faith enough to allow me to wrestle for them.
“You all know the story; basically I came, I saw, I conquered. In a few short weeks I was a fan favorite and was gaining more attention the champ and all the company’s top stars combined.
“Can I tell you, it was an amazing feeling!
“And just like that, I was thrown into the title contention. Now, what many people also don’t know is, that was my first title match in my career.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Looking back, my first reign as UWA World Champion wasn’t too bad.
“I will say that it took me a long time to get used to actually ‘being’ the champ. And when I say that, I mean all the pressures and responsibilities that go along with the gold. People to seem to understand that being the champion, the top dog in the company, well, it’s a lot of work. Hell, I’d go as far to as that being the champion is a hard job.
“But, is it worth it?
“Hell yeah it’s worth it! Isn’t that every wrestler’s dream? To be the man? To carry the belt on one shoulder and company itself on the other?”
Manabu nods his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’ll admit, I took my title reign for granted.
“But, this week, I’ve got an opportunity to reclaim what is rightfully mine!
“You see a few weeks ago I had a hellish battle with Joanne Calleni, in which she defeated me. Now, I’m not going to make any excuses; I lost that match. But I have not intentions of losing to you again Ms. Calleni. Although, I do have to admit something; you have been my strongest opponent in this company.
“You and I have one thing I common, a special drive to win.
“But after that, ours paths branch out further than two seas. I wasn’t rich growing up, but I was content, I never had to want for anything. My parents were able to send me to the college of my choosing, and I went to post-secondary schooling. All in all, my life has been pretty mild, some might even say privileged.
“Your life hasn’t been like that has it Joanne?
“Try as you may to keep your wrestling life spate from your personal life, the two always seem to cross over. I’ve heard the rumors Joanne, the shadiness, the acts of gruesome violence. Even you have to admit that your life as it stands right now isn’t peachy keen right?”
Manabu laughs a little.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Joanne, do you know what it means to be a champion? To be a real champion? Trust me, it’s not just about fighting hard and defending your title. In fact, that’s the easy part. But you see, a TRUE champion is a role model, a figure head. The UWA World Champion should be the ambassador of the entire promotion. And yes, you fight hard Joanne, but, you aren’t the ambassador UWA needs. It’s clear that you don’t carry yourself with honor—your hands are bloody my dear. Your hands are stained with all the nefarious acts that you and your clan of committed!
“But you think you deserve to be the symbol of UWA?
“The fact of the matter is, I’m a better fit, and it’s just that simple my dear. Not only to I thrive within the rings of UWA, but, I do so elsewhere too.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You knew this was coming right?
“A few months ago, UWA sent three stars up to Canada to represent the company in the ‘God of Wrestling’ tournament. If you recall Joanne, those stars were Cashman, myself, and you. Now, during that first round, you gave a spirited series of promos, claiming that you were the best, that you would defeat any opponent. And what happened next? You proceeded to take you’re a** home on the next available flight, along with Cashman.
“Me?
“Well, in stellar fashion, I won my match, moving on to the second round. Then, I had to face a man by the name of Lucas Knight. Knight has had over 500 matches, and only lost 16 of them.
“Do you know what happened that night Joanne?
“That number went up to 17.
“Yeah Joanne, you have beaten me a couple times; that’s great. But you see, I’ve proven myself by defeating opponents far greater than you. How can you consider yourself the best of the best when you got you’re a** kicked by others who claim to be the best as well.
“You see, if you were as great say you say that you are, then this tournament, along with your title reign, would have solidified your statements. Instead, your showing proves that you are a bad look for the company!”
Manabu is silent for a little bit. He then lets out a smile.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I know you don’t like me Joanne; hell, why should you, I’m the guy looking to take our head off. I’m willing to beat that you don’t respect me either. You’ve don’t respect how I carry myself, in and out of the ring. You don’t respect my in ring abilities. And, I’m sure you don’t respect what I’ve done in this company.
“That’s cool Joanne, I’m not looking to earn your respect. But, I want you to know something; I’m not just going to roll over and let you win this match! Your best bet would be to just kill me out there in that ring, which I’m sure, is something you are privy to.
“But there is one thing that I do know about Joanne, and that is hard work. You aren’t as tough as me Joanne, you aren’t as fit as me. You don’t know the kind of training I had to endure to get to where I am now!
“For example, my dojo used a practice called ‘stiffing.’ At the beginning and end of each training season, everyone has to take 25 lashing with a kendo stick; the students, the trainers—everyone!
“There were many days when I wanted to quit, just give up and go back to L.A. But, you know, two things kept running through my mind. The first was being labeled a failure, a disgrace to the Fujiwara name. I d*** sure wasn’t going to mud at what my father and grandfather before my have done in wrestling. But, you know what really kept me in the fight Joanne? Now, do you know what that last driving factor was Joanne? You see, I knew that if I could just pull through, if I could just survive, that I would be able to change the wrestling business!”
Manabu shakes his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You know, earlier in the week, I had some doubts about this match. I didn’t know if I was ready for this rematch just so soon. But you know what, those doubts are over now. I’m confident that I can and will defeat you this week.
“It’s crazy you know. The other day I overheard some fans discussing our match. One of them made the statement that Lady Luck was on my side, based on my past couple of weeks, and that’s why I would win the match. Lady Luck coupled with my ring skills equals the end of your title reign Joanne. You have beaten me before, but you sure as hell aren’t better than me, because I’m one of the best in the world. And some day, I will be THE best in the world. You can’t stop it Joanne, you can’t evade it—it’s destiny. It’s already been written!
“This match has already been written, and I see myself, feel myself reclaiming my UWA belt!”
Manabu sighs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I don’t want this to become some type of war Joanne, but I’ve prepared for it. You are willing to kill for your title, and I’m willing to die to reclaim mine. In my mind, that equates to a massacre in the ring. The only question is, who is going to walk away?
“Well, I guess it’s not really a fair question, because I know that answer already.
“That person will be me!”
Manabu laughs.
END
Section 1
Flashback
Dr. Conor:
“Students, do you know the reason why I’m so hard on you all?”
The middle-aged man with sandy brown hair turns towards a group of 20 college seniors. These senior would be graduating and heading out into the real world in two short weeks. The professor takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes. It was 8:30 in the morning玆a time that neither he nor the students wanted to be in class.
The students don’t make a sound, they just look at the man. Dr. Conor shakes his head.
Dr. Conor:
“Anyone?”
The man points at a student, who is sitting in the front row.
Dr. Conor:
“Mr. Fujiwara, I know you have an answer to my question.”
The class turns and stares at Manabu; it’s up to him to answer for the entire class. Manabu sighs as he runs his fingers through his hair.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, you are so hard on us all because you want us to succeed, not just in or careers, but in life. The world isn’t going to be easy on us, so why should you.”
Dr. Conor nods his head.
Dr. Conor:
“Very well put Mr. Fujiwara.
“Now, we are in 500 level communications class. Do you have any idea why I have been making you all learn about other things, such as economics and such?”
The class turns and looks at Manabu.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, for a couple of reasons. We need to be well-round, so that we can communicate.
“The second reason, well, from our studies we have learned that many of us are interested in other areas besides communications.”
Dr. Conor:
“That is correct.
“Communications is your major. But, I also want you all to be aware that you are very proficient in other areas. Many of you have learned that you are great in economics, others learned that you could make it in the science field.
“I want you to remember this when you graduate玆you all are special people. The job market is always tough to break into, and you may not even find a job in that field. But, hopefully, now you all know that you can excel in other areas. You all should know that if things the work out in communications, you have got other options!”
Dr. Conor looks at his watch.
Dr. Conor:
“Well, it looks like we are out of time. I will see you all Monday. Remember, we will be doing class evolutions, so bring a pencil.”
The students begin to shuffle out of the room.
Dr. Conor:
“Manabu, may I speak to you for a moment?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Sure Dr. Conor.”
Dr. Conor walks over and talks a seat next to Manabu.
Dr. Conor:
“I wanted to talk to you about last week’s paper, the one about choosing an alternative career path.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.
“Was there something wrong with it?”
Dr. Conor:
“No, not at all. Your papers are always well written.
“I wanted to discuss the career a bit. I had no idea that you were interested in wrestling.”
Manabu laughs a bit.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I wasn’t when I was younger. But, lately, I’ve really taken a liking to it.”
Dr. Conor:
“My cousin was a wrestler back in the day; I never got into the ring myself. Although, I did help set up the ring, and I did a bit of commentating.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Really?”
Dr. Conor:
“Yes.
“Let me ask, what do you plan on doing after graduation?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, I plan on going to school to be a paralegal. Then eventually, I’d like to become a lawyer sometime down the road.”
Dr. Conor:
“Very nice choice.
“And what about wrestling?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Well, it would be nice. But I don’t…”
Dr. Conor holds up a hand.
Dr. Conor:
“No ‘buts’ Manabu. Sir, you are one of my best students. You can do ANYTHING if you put your mind to it, I’ve seen that first hand. Now, I’m not telling you to give up becoming a paralegal or a lawyer. But, based on our paper, you seem to believe you would make a great wrestler. And, unlike entering the law field, becoming a wrestler has a shorter time frame. So, if it’s something you really want to do, then do it!”
Manabu nods his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Thank you very much sir.”
Section 2
Cammy always love to celebrate after a win. The L.A. Vikings had one their first preseason game, and in impressive fashion to boot. To celebrate, the team rented out a small lounge. Cammy wanted really wanted Manabu to come, but, his flight was a couple hours late.
To make up for it, Manabu took her out for breakfast in the morning. Manabu wasn’t a big fan of I-Hop, but Cammy was, so that’s where he took her. Afterwards, the two had coffee and pastries at the Starbucks.
Cammy takes a long sip of her coffee, she then smiles at Manabu, who is sitting across the table from her.
Cammy:
“You are the best boyfriend I could ever ask for.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“And you are the best girlfriend I could as for.”
He sighs a bit.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Babe, I’m so sorry.”
Cammy:
“For missing the party? I told you that wasn’t a big deal dear.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“No, it is a big deal. I feel like I haven’t been as supportive of your career as you have been of mine. That party was important to you.”
Cammy grabs his hand.
Cammy:
“Babe, your flight was delayed. There was nothing you could do about that!”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yeah…but then this week I’ve got to train for this title re-match. I won’t be able to come to your game on Thursday and…”
Cammy playfully breaks off a piece of her scone and stuffs it in Manabu’s mouth.
Cammy:
“Hush you!
“For one, you attended my first preseason, in which you braved cold weather. Furthermore, you gave me your blessing to get back into soccer; my own family discouraged me from doing that.
“So as far as I’m concerned, you have been the most supportive.”
Manabu presses her hand.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Thanks babe.”
Cammy:
“Now back to you sir. How do you feel about this match? Are you excited about it?
“And be honest!”
Manabu shifts in his seat.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’m excited to have another opportunity at the UWA Championship.
“But I’ll be honest, I’m not ‘excited’ per se for the match. If anything, I guess you could say I’m a little bit anxious.”
Cammy nods her head.
Cammy:
“Perfectly understandable.
“I know you; you are beginning to doubt your skills. That’s something I’ve always noticed about you Manabu. 99 percent of the time, you are confident. However, one percent of the time, you are unsure of your skills.
“Personally, as your girlfriend, I think it’s a bit cute, it shows that you aren’t a machine, that you are human.
“But professionally, that hurts you dear. You need to believe in yourself at ALL times!”
Manabu nods his head as he takes a sip of his coffee.
Cammy:
“However, I think you are capable of winning this match. But now, YOU need to believe it as well.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You are right dear…”
Before Manabu can finish his statement, he notices that someone has been hovering over the table of a couple of seconds. Manabu looks up and sees a tall man his sandy colored hair. It takes him a few seconds to recognize who the man is.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Dr. Conor!?”
Dr. Conor:
“Manabu Fujiwara!”
Manabu stands up and embraces his old professor.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Long time no see sir!
“Please, join us.”
Dr. Conor takes a seat.
Dr. Conor:
“Is that you Ms. Torrow?”
Cammy smiles.
Cammy:
“Yes sir.
“How have you been Dr. Conor?”
Dr. Conor:
“I’ve been doing great.
“I hear you have been leading the Vikings to victory lately.”
Cammy:
“You follow soccer?”
Dr. Conor:
“Ha, just a little bit.” He then turns to Manabu. “I also follow wrestling a little bit. I hear you have made quite a name for yourself.”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Haha, yeah.”
Cammy:
“And this week he has the chance to become the world champion in his company, for the second time.”
Dr. Conor:
“Is that so?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.”
Conor studies Manabu’s face.
Dr. Conor:
“Hmmm.
“You don’t seem to convinced Manabu.”
Manabu hesitates for a few seconds.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’m…I guess I’m a little bit anxious about this match. When I faced Neptune, the previous holder, I wasn’t nervous or anxious one bit. But, Joanne has been the only person in the company to stop me at every turn.”
Dr. Conor:
“Anxious huh?
“Manabu, do you know what anxiety is? Anxiety is nothing but fear. Now, fear is a powerful instrument. Fear keeps us from doing a lot of great things.
“Can I ask, are you confident in your abilities sir?”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.”
Dr. Conor:
“Then that should be enough to get you through this match. You have gotten to the top once before, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to get there once again. If you remember, shortly before you graduated, I told you that you could do ANYTHING if you put your mind to it.
“So, it really comes down to this; do you WANT to win this match or not? If you don’t, then you might as well not show up to the area.”
Manabu doesn’t say a word, but, his eyes turns down towards the floor. However, Dr. Conor smiles.
Dr. Conor:
“But, there was no reason for me to ask that question was it?
“You haven’t changed a bit Manabu. Even though I can see that you are anxious, I can still sense that fire in you. I’m sure being a champion is a tough task, but you want to win this match.
“Now sir, my advice to you now would be to take some time. Go clear your head; go fine yourself. Get ride of that fear.
“And, when get done, I believe you will be fired up and ready to roll.”
Dr. Conor looks down at his watch.
Dr. Conor:
“Well, I’ve probably taken too much of your time up already. Besides, I’ve got a seminar to attend.
“See you too later, and remember my words Manabu!”
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Yes sir.
“Take care.”
Dr. Conor exits the coffee shop. Cammy turns to Manabu.
Cammy:
“Well, you heard the doctor.”
The two both laugh.
Section 3
After reflecting on his talk with Dr. Conor, he decided to take some time and get away. That night, he left his apartment at 1:23 a.m.; Cammy was on the couch playing FIFA at the time. Since it was late, he decided to go for a drive around town.
He drove past the nightclubs; they were busy as always. He rolled down the window of his Audi, letting some cool air trickle into the vehicle.
Some people recognized him and began shout. Manabu gave them a courtesy hand wave, acknowledging their shouts.
All this commotion wasn’t conducive, so, Manabu traveled to his old neighbor next. Manabu hated the place growing up. It wasn’t a bad place back then, no, far from it. But, it always rubbed him the wrong way. Perhaps it was because there weren’t a lot of kids for him to interact with. Later in life Manabu discovered that house mortgages and rental prices were over-priced, even for L.A.
However, he smiled when he rolled past his old house. It was a large white house on the corner of the street; a chain fence, huge lawn, and a tree completed everything.
The outside of the house had changed since the last time he visited the place, which was right before he left for wrestling school.
Manabu then hit the highway. What better way to relax than miles of open road?
He pooped in a CD that had been given a couple weeks ago; the artist was a guy named Danny Brown.
It's the Adderall Admiral, writing holy macarel
Your b**** say my d*** long like the strap on a satchel
I took me a capsule with no hassle
Now it's like I dip feathers of ink in a castle
A prodigy like bullets that hit your left clavicle
No sweatsuits and paint the avenue
You have no clue like toy stores without board games
But when I paint pictures, I'm dipping brushes in war paint
Manabu cringes and turns the CD player off. Instead, he switches to talk radio, which he can admit isn’t any less raunchy. But, it’s more to his liking.
He listens to it for a few minutes, then turns the sound down after a few moments. He then lets a large sigh.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“A few months ago I joined UWA. Now, what most people don’t know is, I didn’t want anything to do with a title belt when I first signed the contract. To be honest, I was content just being back in the ring after my two-year hiatus.
“Well, maybe content isn’t the right word. But, after I had gone through in XDF, I was just glad a promotion had faith enough to allow me to wrestle for them.
“You all know the story; basically I came, I saw, I conquered. In a few short weeks I was a fan favorite and was gaining more attention the champ and all the company’s top stars combined.
“Can I tell you, it was an amazing feeling!
“And just like that, I was thrown into the title contention. Now, what many people also don’t know is, that was my first title match in my career.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Looking back, my first reign as UWA World Champion wasn’t too bad.
“I will say that it took me a long time to get used to actually ‘being’ the champ. And when I say that, I mean all the pressures and responsibilities that go along with the gold. People to seem to understand that being the champion, the top dog in the company, well, it’s a lot of work. Hell, I’d go as far to as that being the champion is a hard job.
“But, is it worth it?
“Hell yeah it’s worth it! Isn’t that every wrestler’s dream? To be the man? To carry the belt on one shoulder and company itself on the other?”
Manabu nods his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I’ll admit, I took my title reign for granted.
“But, this week, I’ve got an opportunity to reclaim what is rightfully mine!
“You see a few weeks ago I had a hellish battle with Joanne Calleni, in which she defeated me. Now, I’m not going to make any excuses; I lost that match. But I have not intentions of losing to you again Ms. Calleni. Although, I do have to admit something; you have been my strongest opponent in this company.
“You and I have one thing I common, a special drive to win.
“But after that, ours paths branch out further than two seas. I wasn’t rich growing up, but I was content, I never had to want for anything. My parents were able to send me to the college of my choosing, and I went to post-secondary schooling. All in all, my life has been pretty mild, some might even say privileged.
“Your life hasn’t been like that has it Joanne?
“Try as you may to keep your wrestling life spate from your personal life, the two always seem to cross over. I’ve heard the rumors Joanne, the shadiness, the acts of gruesome violence. Even you have to admit that your life as it stands right now isn’t peachy keen right?”
Manabu laughs a little.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“Joanne, do you know what it means to be a champion? To be a real champion? Trust me, it’s not just about fighting hard and defending your title. In fact, that’s the easy part. But you see, a TRUE champion is a role model, a figure head. The UWA World Champion should be the ambassador of the entire promotion. And yes, you fight hard Joanne, but, you aren’t the ambassador UWA needs. It’s clear that you don’t carry yourself with honor—your hands are bloody my dear. Your hands are stained with all the nefarious acts that you and your clan of committed!
“But you think you deserve to be the symbol of UWA?
“The fact of the matter is, I’m a better fit, and it’s just that simple my dear. Not only to I thrive within the rings of UWA, but, I do so elsewhere too.”
Manabu laughs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You knew this was coming right?
“A few months ago, UWA sent three stars up to Canada to represent the company in the ‘God of Wrestling’ tournament. If you recall Joanne, those stars were Cashman, myself, and you. Now, during that first round, you gave a spirited series of promos, claiming that you were the best, that you would defeat any opponent. And what happened next? You proceeded to take you’re a** home on the next available flight, along with Cashman.
“Me?
“Well, in stellar fashion, I won my match, moving on to the second round. Then, I had to face a man by the name of Lucas Knight. Knight has had over 500 matches, and only lost 16 of them.
“Do you know what happened that night Joanne?
“That number went up to 17.
“Yeah Joanne, you have beaten me a couple times; that’s great. But you see, I’ve proven myself by defeating opponents far greater than you. How can you consider yourself the best of the best when you got you’re a** kicked by others who claim to be the best as well.
“You see, if you were as great say you say that you are, then this tournament, along with your title reign, would have solidified your statements. Instead, your showing proves that you are a bad look for the company!”
Manabu is silent for a little bit. He then lets out a smile.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I know you don’t like me Joanne; hell, why should you, I’m the guy looking to take our head off. I’m willing to beat that you don’t respect me either. You’ve don’t respect how I carry myself, in and out of the ring. You don’t respect my in ring abilities. And, I’m sure you don’t respect what I’ve done in this company.
“That’s cool Joanne, I’m not looking to earn your respect. But, I want you to know something; I’m not just going to roll over and let you win this match! Your best bet would be to just kill me out there in that ring, which I’m sure, is something you are privy to.
“But there is one thing that I do know about Joanne, and that is hard work. You aren’t as tough as me Joanne, you aren’t as fit as me. You don’t know the kind of training I had to endure to get to where I am now!
“For example, my dojo used a practice called ‘stiffing.’ At the beginning and end of each training season, everyone has to take 25 lashing with a kendo stick; the students, the trainers—everyone!
“There were many days when I wanted to quit, just give up and go back to L.A. But, you know, two things kept running through my mind. The first was being labeled a failure, a disgrace to the Fujiwara name. I d*** sure wasn’t going to mud at what my father and grandfather before my have done in wrestling. But, you know what really kept me in the fight Joanne? Now, do you know what that last driving factor was Joanne? You see, I knew that if I could just pull through, if I could just survive, that I would be able to change the wrestling business!”
Manabu shakes his head.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“You know, earlier in the week, I had some doubts about this match. I didn’t know if I was ready for this rematch just so soon. But you know what, those doubts are over now. I’m confident that I can and will defeat you this week.
“It’s crazy you know. The other day I overheard some fans discussing our match. One of them made the statement that Lady Luck was on my side, based on my past couple of weeks, and that’s why I would win the match. Lady Luck coupled with my ring skills equals the end of your title reign Joanne. You have beaten me before, but you sure as hell aren’t better than me, because I’m one of the best in the world. And some day, I will be THE best in the world. You can’t stop it Joanne, you can’t evade it—it’s destiny. It’s already been written!
“This match has already been written, and I see myself, feel myself reclaiming my UWA belt!”
Manabu sighs.
Manabu Fujiwara:
“I don’t want this to become some type of war Joanne, but I’ve prepared for it. You are willing to kill for your title, and I’m willing to die to reclaim mine. In my mind, that equates to a massacre in the ring. The only question is, who is going to walk away?
“Well, I guess it’s not really a fair question, because I know that answer already.
“That person will be me!”
Manabu laughs.
END
